KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia strongly believes that United Nations members must speak with one voice on the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities in all corners of the world, said Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
“It is unfortunate that the world is far from realising a global ceasefire, with many places still experiencing instability,” he said in his inaugural speech at the 76th UN General Assembly in New York yesterday, via a pre-recorded video.
“Malaysia will continue to do what it can to promote peace and prevent conflict in the conduct of its foreign policy.
“In this regard, Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to global peace, security and prosperity by leading on the issuance of a joint communique on a global ceasefire in June.”
He said the country has always been a firm believer in efforts and initiatives to promote peaceful coexistence between nations, peoples, faiths and cultures.
He pointed to the situation in Myanmar since the military seized power from the civilian government on February 1, saying the situation remains a grave concern for Malaysia.
“Malaysia is particularly worried about the humanitarian situation, which has been further aggravated by Myanmar’s healthcare system that is stretched thin by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It is absolutely essential for aid to reach those in need.”
He added that Malaysia currently hosts more than 150,000 refugees from Myanmar, and these individuals make up 86% of Malaysia’s refugee population.
Malaysia fully supports the work of the Asean special envoy to Myanmar, but remains concerned as Myanmar authorities have yet to allow the official to visit the country, he said.
“We urge the authorities to accept the visit and assist the special envoy in his duties, as well as expedite the implementation of the five-point consensus agreed upon by Asean.”
The 10-member bloc has named Brunei’s Foreign Minister II Erywan Mohd Yusof as its special envoy to Myanmar to facilitate the mediation and dialogue process.
On Palestine, Ismail Sabri said Malaysia is appalled by the deaths of many civilians, including women and children, following brutal attacks by Israel in May.
“The systematic oppression of the Palestinians over many years through discriminatory policies, the denial of their basic civil rights, the imposition of harsh conditions, and the large-scale land confiscation and inhumane acts committed against them is tantamount to the crime of apartheid.”
Malaysia reiterates its call for Israel be held responsible for all its wrongdoings, including its flagrant violations of international laws, he said.
He said the country also welcomes the establishment of an international commission of inquiry by the UN Human Rights Council to investigate violations of international human rights laws during the 11-day crisis.
The prime minister added that reform is necessary to strengthen UN’s efficacy as a multilateral organisation in a world that has changed significantly since the organisation came into existence over seven decades ago.
Reform is also needed to bring more transparency to the global body and enhance its credibility, he said.
“On this, we must work together to reform the organisation, and we hope member states will demonstrate openness, flexibility and political will in the interest of international peace, security and prosperity.”
UN has to keep pace with a rapidly changing world as it continues to face a crisis of expectations, he said. – Bernama, September 26, 2021
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