Kuala Lumpur, 18 September 2025 — Malaysia has delivered a scathing critique of the United Nations’ inability to act decisively on major humanitarian crises during a speech at the UN General Assembly, accusing the body of failing to uphold its commitments to protect civilians and enforce ceasefires.
Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Hasan raised concerns about the repeated failure of the UN and its Security Council to agree on resolutions that would impose ceasefires or protect vulnerable populations in conflict zones. Malaysia specifically decried the UN’s inability to respond effectively to escalating violence, citing the Palestinian-Israeli conflict among key examples where civilians continue to suffer amidst stalled diplomatic efforts.
In his address, the minister stressed that repeated calls for ceasefire by Malaysia have been going unanswered, pointing out that draft resolutions have either been vetoed by permanent members, delayed, or watered down in compromise negotiations. He affirmed Malaysia’s support for resolutions at the UN General Assembly aimed at protecting civilians, upholding international humanitarian law, and demanding that parties involved in conflicts comply with these obligations.
The speech also underlined that Malaysia views the failure of the UN system — especially the Security Council — to act swiftly in the face of humanitarian emergencies as a moral and legal failing. When the UN fails to censure or halt actions causing widespread civilian suffering, it undermines its own credibility and the trust of member states that depend on it for upholding global norms.
Mohamad Hasan committed Malaysia to continue pushing for reforms in global governance, greater accountability in how resolutions are implemented, and stronger mechanisms that compel compliance. He emphasized that passing resolutions is not enough; what matters is their enforcement and the practical relief of suffering populations.
Malaysia’s criticism comes amid ongoing international concern over whether the UN can meet expectations during crises where ceasefires and protection of civilians are heavily contested. The country’s remarks join those of other nations and humanitarian advocates calling for clearer rules, faster responses, and fewer political impediments to UN action.
