UN FORUM & DEBATE: REINVENTING THE UNITED NATIONS FOR GREATER EFFECTIVENESS
Date
26/02/2025
UN FORUM & DEBATE: REINVENTING THE UNITED NATIONS FOR GREATER EFFECTIVENESS
The United Nations Association of Malaysia (UNAM), in collaboration with Sunway University, successfully hosted the UN Forum & Debate: Reinventing the United Nations for Greater Effectiveness on 26 February 2025. The event brought together experts, policymakers, academics, and students to engage in critical discussions on the evolving role of the United Nations (UN) in addressing global challenges.
Professor Abhimanyu Veerakumarasivam, Provost of Sunway University
Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, President of UNAMv
The event commenced with Welcoming Remarks from Professor Abhimanyu Veerakumarasivam, Provost of Sunway University, who highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering meaningful discourse on international affairs.
Opening Remarks by Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, President of UNAM, who emphasized the importance of UN reform to ensure it remains relevant and effective in today’s complex geopolitical landscape.
This was followed by two esteemed speakers provided in-depth perspectives on key global issues:
YBhg. Dato’ Syed Mohammad Bakri Syed Abdul Rahman, Director General of the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations
Professor Shandre Mugan Thangavelu, Head of the Jeffrey Cheah Institute on Southeast Asia, Sunway University
YBhg. Dato’ Syed Mohammad Bakri Syed Abdul Rahman, Director General of the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations, delivered a keynote address on "The Role of the United Nations in Promoting Global Peace and Prosperity – Issues and Challenges." He underscored the UN’s contributions to peacekeeping, diplomacy, and international cooperation while also addressing the challenges the organization faces in adapting to modern conflicts.
Professor Shandre Mugan Thangavelu, Head of the Jeffrey Cheah Institute on Southeast Asia, Sunway University, presented on "Sustainability Finance and the Role of the UN and ASEAN." His talk explored the crucial link between financial policies and sustainable development, emphasizing ASEAN’s role in complementing UN efforts.
Sunway Debate Club
University of Malaya English Debate Club
One of the highlights of the event was the debate session, where Sunway Debate Club and the University of Malaya English Debate Club engaged in a lively discussion on the motion: "This House Believes That the United Nations is Still Relevant Today."
The debaters presented compelling arguments both for and against the motion, offering insights into the UN’s successes, shortcomings, and the need for reform.
With an attendance of 219 participants, the forum and debate provided a valuable platform for meaningful discussions on the UN’s effectiveness in tackling global issues.
UNAM extends its sincere appreciation to Huawei and Carabao for their generous sponsorship of the event. Their support was instrumental in ensuring the success of the forum and debate, providing participants with an enriching and well-organized experience.
Stay tuned for future events and initiatives by UNAM as we work towards a more effective and impactful global governance system.