STATEMENT BY
H.E. SYED MOHAMAD HASRIN AIDID
PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA
TO THE UNITED NATIONS
ON ITEM 39: THE QUESTION OF PALESTINE
AT THE PLENARY MEETING OF THE 76TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
1 DECEMBER 2021, NEW YORK
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Mr. President,
Earlier this week, we observed the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People – an occasion that continued to remind us of the dreadful suffering and hardship faced by our Palestinian brothers and sisters. It is disheartening that for generations, they continue to live under brutal occupation and within a repressive blockade; their fundamental rights denied while illegal settlements are being expanded.
Mr. President,
2. Israeli systematic oppression of Palestinians and discriminatory policies are tantamount to the crimes of apartheid, and its settlements are illegal under international law. Malaysia calls on all Member States that believe in the rule of law and human rights not to shy away from denouncing Israeli illegal and inhumane actions. The international community must assume its responsibility to secure justice and accountability of Israel's crime and human rights violations. Impunity in the Occupied Palestinian territory must end.
3. We also call on all Member States not to take selective and discriminatory approach in protecting human rights defenders and civil society organisations that are working for the human rights of Palestinians.
Mr. President,
4. It remains Malaysia's firm position that only a negotiated political solution based on internationally agreed parameters, international law, and relevant UN resolutions can lead to durable peace. In this connection, it is more urgent than ever to restart and create the necessary condition for peace talks between the relevant parties. We must not rely on the status quo as there is no guarantee that a flood of bloodshed will not recur.
5. Malaysia also continues to call for the UN membership to grant the full membership status to the State of Palestine. The UN was created on the principles of ensuring the presence and practice of human rights, justice, peace, and respect for international law for all – the same should also apply to the State of Palestine and its people.
Mr. President,
6. Malaysia, too, remains committed to supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Last month, we pledged a USD1 million long-term contribution to UNRWA in support of predictable and sustainable funding for the Agency. We call on other Member States that have not done so to consider providing financial assistance to the Agency so it can continue to provide critical humanitarian and development needs for millions of Palestinian refugees.
7. Let me conclude by reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment and support to the Palestinian people in realising their inalienable rights to self-determination and independence based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
I thank you.
