STATEMENT BY AMBASSADOR DR. AHMAD FAISAL MUHAMAD, PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA
AT THE
INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATIONS ON THE QUESTION OF EQUITABLE REPRESENTATION ON AND INCREASE IN THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL, TRUSTEESHIP COUNCIL CHAMBER, 23 JUNE 2025
I thank you, Chair, for convening this meeting. We welcome the “Revised Co-Chairs Elements Paper” which was transmitted to member states on 17 June.
2. In general, Malaysia is of the view that the Revised Elements Paper captured much of the positions, views, and comments expressed during the IGN meetings held since late last year and in the second half of this year. We commend the Chair for being attentive and transparent in reflecting the discussions and inputs of Member States.
3. Nevertheless, we welcome the opportunity to provide initial observations on the Revised Elements Paper, and to reiterate our views as articulated in past IGN meetings.
Chair,
4. Allow me to make the following observations:
First, the question of the veto
5. On the key question of the veto, Malaysia remains firm in its belief that it should be abolished in the long run. Until then, the veto should be regulated to prevent abuse. We have also proposed that for a veto to be valid, must be supported by other permanent and non-permanent members of the Council and endorsed by a simple majority in the General Assembly. The veto should not apply to situation involving mass atrocity crimes, such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
Second, Relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly
6. We welcome the Chair’s reflection on the convergences regarding the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly. Malaysia supports efforts to strengthen cooperation and complementarity between the two organs, in full respect of their respective mandates under the Charter.
7. We underscore the importance of enhancing transparency, accountability, and coordination – including through more substantive annual reports, regular meetings between the Presidents of both organs, and increased access and participation for non-Council members in the work of the Security Council.
8. We also support existing accountability mechanisms on the use of the veto, as exemplified by the Veto Initiative, which enhances the accountability of the Permanent Members to the wider membership.
Third, Expansion of the Membership of the Security Council
9. Malaysia supports the expansion of the membership of the Security Council that would make it more democratic and inclusive, one that would better reflect the current membership of the UN and the realities of the contemporary world. We note that there is shared agreement on this principle in the Elements Paper. A more representative Council would enhance its legitimacy, credibility, and effectiveness in discharging its responsibilities under the Charter.
10. However, we emphasise that the expansion must enhance rather than hinder, the Council’s ability to function efficiently and effectively.
Fourth, the working methods of the Security Council
11. Malaysia supports efforts to continuously review the Council’s working methods in order to make it more transparent, effective, efficient, and accountable. In this regard, it is essential that the setting of the Council’s agenda be guided by the importance of issues to international peace and security, rather than the political interests of a few members.
12. Greater transparency can also be achieved through more use of open meetings and inclusive formats, such as Arria-formula meetings, which allow broader participation and strengthen trust among the wider UN membership.
Chair,
13. Since gaining our independence 67 years ago, Malaysia has been given the honour of serving as a member of the Security Council on four occasions. This is a trust bestowed upon us by Member States that we do not take lightly. Rest assured, Malaysia will maintain its strong commitment towards efforts to improve the effectiveness of the Security Council, including through constructive engagement in the IGN process.
Thank you.
