STATEMENT : SECOND INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATIONS (IGN) ON SECURITY COUNCIL REFORM, 7 MARCH 2022

STATEMENT BY

MR. MOHD HAFIZ BIN OTHMAN

MINISTER COUNSELLOR, PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA

TO THE UNITED NATIONS

ON THE Question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council

cluster: i) categories of membership; and

ii) the question of veto

Co-Chairs,

Once again, we meet in this very hall to consider the question of the reform of the Security Council. While we are mindful that the reform process must be inclusive and transparent, my delegation is also of the view that further delays in reforming the Council will not help address the emerging threats to international peace and security. Hence, I wish to reiterate my delegation's call for text-based negotiations in moving the IGN process forward.

Co-Chairs,

2.      On the cluster of categories of membership, Malaysia reiterates its position that the reform of the Security Council should be comprehensive, both in terms of its working methods and expansion of its membership, in order to make it more legitimate, representative, democratic, accountable and transparent. Malaysia sees the merit in the provision of seats for non-represented and under-represented regions in both categories. We envisage a reformed Council that corresponds with the current geo-political realities and dynamics. It is also our conviction that more equitable representation would allow more Member States to have the opportunity to contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security.

Co-Chairs,

3.      On the question of veto, Malaysia believes that the current veto mechanism should be abolished. Until such time, Malaysia is of the view that it should be regulated. Malaysia has and will continue to urge the Permanent Members of the Security Council, which, in their exercise of the veto, to ensure that it is not used in situations involving mass atrocity crimes, such as genocide, crimes against humanity, or war crimes. More importantly, veto power must not be exercised against the interests of the majority of UN Member States. In this respect, we underscore that the use of the veto is not a privilege; it is a responsibility.

4.         In regulating the veto system further, Malaysia also reiterates its proposal that the veto should not be exercised by just one permanent member but by at least two members and supported by three non-permanent members of the Security Council. The General Assembly should then back the decision with a simple majority.

Co-chairs,

5.         A reformed Security Council would lead to renewed confidence in the United Nations and its Charter. Let me conclude by assuring you of my delegation's commitment to moving this process forward.

I thank you.