Shanghai: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for urgent reform of global governance structures, cautioning that the failures of the current multilateral system have left the world unable to prevent atrocities and aggression. He addressed these concerns at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Plus Meeting, chaired by China’s President and SCO Chair, Xi Jinping.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar criticized the United Nations, stating it is no longer seen as having the aspiration or will to reform itself due to the widening gap between ideals and action. He highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a stark example of the failure of global institutions, stressing that civilian killings continue unabated while the international community remains powerless.
Anwar emphasized that the international community seems helpless, not only in Gaza and Palestine but also affecting neighbors such as Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq. He expressed Malaysia’s support for China’s Global Governance Initiative as a step towards restoring trust in multilateralism, citing failures in trade, financial architecture, and climate change as contributors to a deficit of trust in the international system.
As ASEAN Chair, Anwar noted that the SCO’s agenda on economic connectivity, public health, security, and energy transition aligns with Malaysia’s position and ASEAN’s priorities. He thanked Xi and China for their reliable friendship to Malaysia and ASEAN and underscored Malaysia’s commitment to moderation and cooperation, referencing Confucius’ principle of ‘Chung Yung’ as a foundation for multilateralism.
The high-profile event was attended by over 20 world leaders and 10 heads of international and regional organizations, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Anwar’s participation, despite Malaysia not being an observer state or a dialogue partner to the SCO, highlighted the country’s deepening strategic ties with China. His visit to China continues with meetings in Beijing.