UN Forum 2024: Eight Decades, Issues, and Challenges
Date
1/11/2024
UN Forum 2024
The United Nations Association of Malaysia (UNAM) successfully hosted the UN Forum 2024, with the theme "Eight Decades, Issues and Challenges," at the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR), Kuala Lumpur. The event, held on October 24th, marked a significant moment to reflect on the evolution of the United Nations over the past eighty years and discuss Malaysia’s ongoing contributions and emerging global issues.
YB Datuk Mohamad Bin Alamin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dato' Sri Mustapa Mohamed, President of UNAM, delivering the opening speech and keynote address
Opening Ceremony
The forum was inaugurated by Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, President of UNAM, who delivered the welcome remarks, and YB Datuk Mohamad Bin Alamin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, who provided an inspiring keynote address. Both leaders emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to supporting the UN’s mission in fostering international cooperation, peace, and security.
An exhibition by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA)and the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre (MPC) showcased Malaysia’s diplomatic efforts and peacekeeping contributions. This display allowed participants to gain deeper insights into the country’s role in international relations and the critical work done by Malaysian peacekeepers worldwide.
YB Datuk Mohamad Bin Alamin and Dato' Sri Mustapa Mohamed touring the Ministry of Foreign Affairs exhibition, part of the event’s showcase by MoFA and the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre (MPC)
Distinguished Keynote Speakers
Following the opening remarks, a series of esteemed speakers shared insights on various topics:
- Tan Sri Hamidon Ali, former Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the UN, discussed the UN’s evolution and Malaysia’s pivotal role within the organisation.
- Colonel Noor Azman bin Haji Yahya, Commandant of the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre (MPC), highlighted Malaysia’s involvement in peacekeeping operations globally.
- Ms. Karima El Korri, UN Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore, presented an overview of the UN’s impact and partnerships within Malaysia.
The forum concluded with a panel discussion on International Peace & Security, moderated by Dato' M. Santhananaban, Vice President of UNAM. The panellists included:
- Associate Professor Dr. Roy Anthony Rogers, Department of International and Strategic Studies, Universiti Malaya (UM)
- Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Dr. Sivabalan Suppiah, Former United Nations Police Adviser to South Sudan, Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM)
- Dr. Richard Marshall, Senior Economist at the United Nations Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei Darussalam
(left) Group photo with all attendees, speakers, and participants, showcasing the event's diverse and distinguished audience. (right) Group photo with all speakers, exemplifying the thought leaders and experts who made the UN Day Forum 2024 a success
Audience and Exhibitions
The forum attracted representatives from Malaysia’s public and private universities, government ministries, and members of the diplomatic community, including the Embassy of Belgium. Exhibitions by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre (MPC) further engaged attendees, showcasing Malaysia’s achievements and initiatives in peacekeeping and diplomatic cooperation.
Livestream and Media Coverage
The UN Day Forum was live-streamed on UNAM’s Facebook page and covered by Astro Awani, enabling a wider audience to participate virtually. This digital outreach fostered broader engagement.
Conclusion
The UN Day Forum 2024 was a resounding success, strengthening Malaysia’s commitment to the UN’s mission and fostering a deeper understanding of the global issues impacting peace and security. UNAM extends its gratitude to all speakers, participants, and volunteers for making this event a memorable celebration of UN Day.
UNAM governing council and working committee group picture, celebrating the dedicated team behind the success of the event