Taking the floor at the UNSC debate on Wednesday, foreign minister Mohamad Hasan said the veto should not be used to block resolutions aimed at upholding international law and protecting innocent civilians.
“Everywhere, the same question echoes: Is the UN too broken to be fixed? The answer is ‘no’, as there is indeed a way, and only one way, to fix the UN. The veto must be limited,” Mohamad said at the debate, themed “Leadership for Peace: United in Respect of the UN Charter, In Search of a Secure Future”.
He urged the Security Council to fully support the implementation of Resolution ES-10/24, which was adopted by the General Assembly on Sept 18 with overwhelming backing.
He described the resolution as a vital step towards securing justice for Palestine, stressing that the Security Council must not allow it to be undermined by the exercise of veto power.
“We demand that this council support the full implementation of the resolution,” he said, noting Malaysia’s deep concern over the killing of more than 500 people in Lebanon while world leaders gathered under the banner of the UN.
Collective efforts crucial to solve Myanmar issue
Speaking to the media after an exchange of notes ceremony with Andorra at Malaysia’s permanent mission to the UN on Wednesday, Mohamad said collective efforts through an Asean approach are crucial in addressing the Myanmar issue, particularly concerning the humanitarian crisis and the oppression of Muslims, including the Rohingya ethnic group in the country.
He said Malaysia, as Asean chair in 2025, will continue to strengthen the troika mechanism with action based on the Asean Five-Point Consensus.
“At the same time, we strongly welcome assistance and support from major powers, influential blocs, and international organisations such as the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
“This is because the Myanmar issue is not an easy one. It has become a cross-border threat, including drug production, job scams, online gambling and various other criminal issues,” he said.
Mohamad said the situation in Myanmar has surpassed the scope of the country’s internal affairs and requires firm action from Asean and international partners.
“In addressing the Myanmar issue, we, as Asean countries, must work together with other member states to find the best way to handle the ongoing crisis, particularly the oppression faced by Muslims in Myanmar,” he said.
Malaysia establishes ties with Andorra
Malaysia has officially established diplomatic relations with the principality of Andorra, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.
The official agreement was formalised through the exchange of notes ceremony at Malaysia’s permanent mission to the UN on Wednesday, with Mohamad and his Andorran counterpart, Imma Tor Faus, in attendance.
Mohamad described the partnership as “vital and timely”, particularly in fostering cooperation on international justice and humanitarian efforts.
He said that despite its small size, Andorra, a principality located between Spain and France, has long been a supportive ally of Malaysia in multilateral forums, particularly at the UN.
“While formal diplomatic relations have just been established today, the close ties between Malaysia and Andorra have existed for some time, particularly in upholding international justice and humanitarian causes.
“Andorra has also been a strong voice in condemning Israel’s atrocities against the Palestinian people in Gaza. This diplomatic relationship has been anticipated by Andorra itself, and we warmly welcome this bilateral connection.
“We hope it will further enhance ties between the people of Malaysia and Andorra, especially in the area of tourism,” he said.