Sharing 1Malaysia at UN

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NEW YORK: The 1Malaysia concept has been brought to the attention of the largest world forum – the United Nations General Assembly.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Anifah Aman gave the assembly a glimpse of how a small multiracial country can draw strength through its diversity.

He said Malaysia, with its multi-ethnic and multiracial society, was conscious of the need to continuously promote interaction between its people of different religions, races and beliefs.

Global affairs: Anifah addressing the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday night.

“For this reason, the Malaysian Government has introduced the 1Malaysia concept, which builds on previous efforts at promoting national unity, yet takes into account present realities.

“It aims at fostering appreciation and respect for all races, seeing diversity as a source of strength. It envisages unity that arises from true acceptance instead of mere tolerance,” he told the 64th UN General Assembly on Monday night.

Anifah noted that the United Nations had been in existence for over 60 years, yet peace and security continued to elude many parts of the world.

He described Malaysia as a country in the middle, “not too large nor too small, not too rich nor too poor, not too strong nor too weak.”

“We do our part knowing that our actions have consequences on ourselves and our children. We do so believing that hope will triumph over adversity,” he said.

Anifah also called for the global governance structure to be improved, noting that decisions were still made by “the few for the many”, and spoke on non-proliferation and disarmament, describing them as cornerstones of peace and security.

The agreement between the United States and Russia to reduce their nuclear stockpiles was also hailed.

On the Palestinian issue, Anifah said it epitomised everything that was unjust and unfair in international relations.

“We must do all that we can to address the Palestinian issue, as resolving it will have a major impact in our efforts to achieve peace and security in the Middle East and beyond,” he said, hoping the United States would play the role of an honest broker.

Anifah also called on the developed world to play the leading role in global effort to combat climate change.

Efforts by the developing world in tackling global challenges, he said, would be far more effective if done in tandem with the developed world.

“Give us fair terms and we will seal the deal. Give us the tools and we will help to finish the job. Invest in our common future and all our children and humanity henceforth will reap the rewards.”