STATEMENT BY
MR. SOFIAN AKMAL ABD. KARIM
DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE
PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL OPEN DEBATE:
“THE UNITED NATIONS ORGANIZATION: LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE”
UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL, NEW YORK, 24 OCTOBER 2025
Thank you, Madam President, for convening this open debate. Malaysia expresses our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his briefing, earlier.
President,
2.This debate takes place 80 years after the UN Charter entered into force, but also at a time of deepening geopolitical divides, rising inequalities, climate disruptions, and rapid technological change. It is a moment that demands unity, vision, and collective action.
3.The question before us is: What kind of United Nations do we want in the future? Allow me to submit the following three points for our reflection.
3.1First, we need to forge a new and improved framework for the multilateral system. This requires meaningful reform of the Security Council, including a more democratic structure and an expanded membership, and reviewing the veto with a view to its eventual elimination. The General Assembly should be empowered to provide policy guidance to the Council, reflecting its role as the voice and conscience of all member states.
3.2Second, the rule of law must prevail, without double standards. The Security Council must ensure that its resolutions are applied equally to all parties, not selectively. Israel has openly violated the UN Charter, international law, and multiple resolutions of both the General Assembly and the Security Council, shielded by an unjust cloak of impunity. Such impunity must come to an end.
3.3Third, while reform efforts are underway, we must ensure they lead to tangible outcomes, rather than being captured by the political interests of a few.The GA Revitalisation, the IGN on Security Council Reform and the UN80 Initiative process deserve our unity and constructive support.Malaysia encourages continued and genuine reform efforts to strengthen the UN and ensure it remains relevant and effective.
President,
4.In conclusion, Malaysia stands ready to work constructively with members of the Security Council and the wider UN membership to shape a reformed UN that meets the hopes of a better and just world for all, for the next 80 years and beyond. Multilateralism, with the UN at its core, may not be perfect, but it remains, and must remain, the best system we have. The UN can be reformed and improved, but it must never be undermined or bypassed.
Happy UN Day and thank you.