MALAYSIA has been officially appointed President of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme Assembly (UN-Habitat) for the 2025–2029 term, following unanimous support from all 193 member states at the Assembly’s session in Nairobi, Kenya.
The appointment was confirmed during the Bureau Officers’ Election session, with Malaysia represented by Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming, who is leading the national delegation.
“Throughout this term, Malaysia will hold the presidency and a seat on the Executive Board, alongside our colleagues from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who represent the Asia-Pacific region,” said Nga.
“This shared commitment symbolises regional solidarity and our dedication to urban sustainability. Together, Malaysia will ensure the Assembly bridges the gap between global aspirations and local realities.”
Malaysia takes over the presidency from Mexico, which represented the Latin America and Caribbean region during the previous term.
Nga described the appointment as a milestone in Malaysia’s international standing and a reaffirmation of its multilateral commitment to advancing the UN-Habitat agenda.
“This appointment is a significant honour for Malaysia, signalling renewed confidence in our global role under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said.
“It reflects our growing international influence and stands as a collective achievement for all Malaysians, in line with our national efforts to promote sustainable urban development.”
He noted that 53 percent of Malaysia’s 156 local authorities have already undertaken Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), placing the country on track to achieve full coverage by 2030.
“As co-president with the UAE, we are ready to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of the United Nations,” Nga added.
Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme in the UAE, echoed this sentiment, calling the dual appointment “a great honour” and a testament to shared goals.
“This partnership reflects strategic alignment and a common vision for a better future,” he said.
The UN-Habitat Assembly, headquartered in Nairobi, was established in 1975 and upgraded to a full programme of the UN General Assembly in 2001. It serves as the highest global decision-making body on sustainable urbanisation and human settlement issues, convening every four years to shape international urban policy. - May 31, 2025
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