Selamat Sejahtera: The Secretary-General expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Malaysia, especially the Deputy Prime Minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for hosting the UN Day Programme, marking the eightieth anniversary of the United Nations. The Secretary-General highlighted Malaysia's significant role as a steadfast member of the UN since its independence in 1957, with notable contributions to peacekeeping and advocacy for Palestinian and Rohingya rights.
According to EMM, the Secretary-General emphasized the founding purpose of the United Nations to prevent war and foster international cooperation. Over the decades, the UN has not only resolved conflicts but also provided essential services like food aid to millions, vaccines to 45% of the world's children, and support for elections globally. The UN has been pivotal in establishing international law and coordinating humanitarian responses during disasters.
The Secretary-General addressed the necessity for the UN's transformation to meet modern challenges, as the world undergoes rapid changes, including shrinking democratic spaces and escalating conflicts. A significant step was the adoption of the Pact for the Future by member states, aiming to align global bodies with contemporary needs. The Secretary-General called for reform of the UN Security Council to better reflect the current world order and criticized the lack of representation for Africa and Asia.
The international financial system also requires reform to ensure justice for nations excluded from prosperity. The Secretary-General advocated for reducing the debt burden on low- and middle-income countries and increasing the lending capacity of development banks. There is a need for developing countries to have a greater role in shaping their economic futures, with institutions reflecting the present-day global landscape.
The Secretary-General highlighted the disparity in ASEAN's economic contribution and its representation in institutions like the IMF and World Bank, calling for corrections in the international financial architecture. He stressed the importance of a multipolar world that fosters multilateral institutions to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
On climate change, the Secretary-General urged the G20 to lead emission reductions and called for developed countries to support mitigation and adaptation efforts in vulnerable nations. He encouraged Malaysia and ASEAN countries to advocate for ambitious climate action at COP30.
The ASEAN Summit exemplifies the success of multilateralism, engaging in dialogues on trade, conflict, and refugees. Regional organizations like ASEAN play a critical role in building trust and managing crises, serving as essential partners to the United Nations.
The Secretary-General concluded by recalling historical moments of UN-facilitated collaboration, such as the eradication of smallpox during the Cold War, urging continued unity to tackle familiar and emerging global challenges. The enduring lesson is that humanity's strength lies in unity, and the cooperation between the UN and ASEAN is vital for global peace and equality.