19-9-2023 (NEW YORK) In a historic moment, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will lead Malaysia’s delegation to the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This marks his inaugural appearance at the annual gathering of world leaders, where Anwar will shed light on Malaysia’s proactive stance in tackling the climate crisis and the measures taken to realize the 2030 Agenda.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, addressing the Malaysian media at the Office of the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the United Nations in New York, emphasized the significance of this occasion. He stated, “The Prime Minister will also share the Malaysia Madani framework… it’s very important for us to let the world know what it is all about.”
Accompanying Prime Minister Anwar will be his wife, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, as well as key cabinet members, including Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Health Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, and several Members of Parliament and government officials.
Prime Minister Anwar is set to deliver Malaysia’s National Statement during the General Debate on Friday, September 22. His presence at the UNGA is expected to garner significant attention, as leaders from 157 countries and 35 ministers converge at the United Nations headquarters for the General Debate.
This year’s theme for the General Debate revolves around “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.”
Foreign Minister Zambry noted that many national leaders eagerly anticipate Anwar’s speech due to his extensive experience and leadership. Anwar is expected to address various global issues, including the Ukraine crisis, as well as the longstanding conflicts in Palestine and Myanmar.
In a testament to his international standing, Anwar has been invited to deliver a Friday sermon at the Islamic Cultural Centre of New York (ICCNY) on September 22, making him the first foreign leader to receive such an honor from the city’s inaugural mosque.
Additionally, Anwar will host a dinner for approximately 1,000 members of the Malaysian diaspora on Friday. It’s worth noting that there are approximately 25,000 Malaysians residing in the United States.
