Published: Tuesday September 29, 2009 MYT 11:48:00 AM
Updated: Tuesday September 29, 2009 MYT 1:20:18 PM
Anifah tells UN General Assembly about 1Malaysia
By LIM AI LEE
NEW YORK: The UN general assembly was given a glimpse of how a small multiracial country can draw strength through its diversity.
Foreign Minister Datuk Anifah Aman said Malaysia, with its multi-ethnic and mulracial society, was conscious of the need to continuously promote interaction between its people of different religions, races and beliefs.
“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 United Nations general assembly here Tuesday morning (Monday night in New York).
Anifah noted that the UN 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.”
Anifah also called for the global governance structure to be improved, noting that decisions were still made by “the few for the many”, citing the UN Security Council as a prime example.
“We continue to believe that reforming the Security Council, including the eventual abolition of the veto, is critical if the aspiration of equality of States is to be achieved.”
Anifah also touched on non-proliferation and disarmament, describing them as cornerstones of peace and security. He welcomed the agreement between the US and Russia to reduce their nuclear stockpiles.
“We view with grave concern any attempt aimed at proliferating nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.”
On the Palestinian issue, he said it epitomised everything that was unjust and unfair in international relations.
“This issue has bedeviled the international community for too long. 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.
“In the interest of global peace, Israel, Palestine and the affected countries in the region must work together to resolve the conflict. We look forward to the US to undertake the role as an honest broker.”
Anifah also called on the developed world to play the leading role in the global effort to combat climate change.
“Developed countries’ pledges for cutting greenhouse gas emissions fall short of what is required to tackle increasing global temperatures,” he noted.
Anifah said efforts by the developing world in tackling global challenges 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.”
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