Speaking at the 15th Asean-UN summit here today, Anwar said Malaysia admired the UN’s tenacity and commitment to upholding multilateralism, freedom, and the rights of nations and minorities.
“We admire the UN’s tenacity and moral clarity, even in addressing some of the world’s most intractable crises, such as the ongoing atrocities in Gaza. It has remained a voice of reason and humanity throughout,” he said.
Anwar said the UN’s steadfast stance in defending international law and promoting dialogue reflected its essential role in maintaining global peace and justice.
UN secretary-general António Guterres, in his address, applauded Malaysia’s role in facilitating a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, saying it paved the way to a peaceful settlement of the dispute.
He also called for the prevention of incidents and reduction of risks in the South China Sea, while maintaining freedom of navigation in line with international law.
On Myanmar, Guterres condemned the ongoing bloodshed and urged all parties to halt fighting, protect civilians, allow unimpeded humanitarian access, and engage in an inclusive political process.
“Thousands are dead, millions are displaced and humanitarian needs are soaring. The Rohingya and other communities are trapped in cycles of persecution and flight.
“The humanitarian plan remains critically underfunded. We need urgent support,” he said.
He said the release of those arbitrarily detained, including democratically elected leaders, is essential, adding that under the current circumstances, elections risk further exclusion and instability.
Myanmar has been mired in civil conflict since the military’s 2021 coup, which saw the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government and her subsequent imprisonment.
That same year, Asean leaders agreed on a five-point consensus urging an end to violence, inclusive dialogue to restore peace and stability, and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected.
Guterres said international institutions must better reflect today’s world by giving developing nations greater representation and called for the reform of the global financial system.
He also highlighted the urgent need to tackle transnational organised crime, in particular cyber-trafficking and scam centres, and urged countries to strengthen cooperation in digital governance.