STATEMENT BY
MR.SOFIAN AKMAL ABD KARIM
CHARGÉ D'AFFAIRES a.i.
PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
GENERAL DEBATE OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON THE REVITALIZATION OF THE WORK OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY,
ECOSOC CHAMBER, UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS, NEW YORK,
20 FEBRUARY 2024
Co-Chairs,
Thank you for convening today’s debate. We congratulate you, Excellencies, on your appointment as Co-Chairs of the Ad Hoc Working Group. Please be assured of Malaysia’s support as we deliberate further on the important subject at hand.
2. Malaysia aligns itself with the statements delivered by Lao PDR on behalf of ASEAN and by Algeria on behalf of NAM.
Co-Chairs,
3. Malaysia was admitted as a member state of the United Nations on 17th September 1957. In his inaugural speech, the first Permanent Representative of Malaysia described the General Assembly as no less than ‘the greatest assembly of nations’. Today, its importance has not diminished. In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges, the General Assembly remains a beacon of hope, embodying the principles of equality, justice, and shared responsibility.
4. As such, it is imperative that we collectively invest in revitalizing the roles and functions of the General Assembly towards enhancing its transparency, efficiency and effectiveness. Malaysia would like to contribute to today’s debate by highlighting the following points:
- First, transparency and accountability within the General Assembly should be emphasized further. By fostering a culture of openness, member states can engage in more informed and constructive discussions. Transparency not only strengthens the democratic ethos of the Assembly but also enhances public trust in its decision-making processes.
- Second, the General Assembly could increase the streamlining of its processes to respond swiftly to emerging crises, as well as upholding the Charter's commitment to maintaining international peace and security. This proactive approach will further demonstrate the United Nations’ relevance in addressing pressing global challenges.
- Third, harnessing technology can enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the General Assembly. Leveraging digital platforms can facilitate broader participation, ensuring that the voices of all member states, regardless of geographical location, are heard. This modernization can invigorate the General Assembly's impact and resonate positively with a tech-savvy global audience.
- Lastly, by emphasizing transparency, responsiveness, technological innovation, and collaborative diplomacy, we can significantly enhance the efficiency of the General Assembly. By doing so, we not only preserve the principles of the Charter but also inspire greater confidence in the United Nations as a vital force for positive change on the global stage.
Co-Chairs,
5. The vitality of the General Assembly in finding solutions and improvements to make it more inclusive, effective and efficient in discharging its functions under the Charter must depend on its Members. Malaysia has no doubt that the near universal membership of the General Assembly will enrich and contribute towards this essential vitality. Please be assured of our delegation’s continued support on the revitalization process.
Thank you.