Joining the UN
Just weeks after achieving independence, the Federation of Malaya was admitted to the United Nations (UN) on 17 September 1957, becoming its 82nd member. Membership gave the young nation a platform to defend its sovereignty and to speak on world affairs. The UN's principles of sovereign equality, peaceful settlement of disputes and self-determination matched Malaysia's own foreign-policy values.
Contributions to peace
Malaysia has been an active supporter of UN peacekeeping. Malaysian personnel served in operations from the Congo (1960) onward, and later in places such as Namibia, Cambodia, Somalia and Bosnia. Malaysia consistently opposed colonialism and apartheid, and championed the rights of the Palestinian people.
Leadership roles
Malaysia has served several terms as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. A high point came when Tan Sri Razali Ismail, Malaysia's representative, was elected President of the UN General Assembly for its 51st session (1996–1997), reflecting the country's respected international standing.
Key idea
Through UN membership since 1957, Malaysia protects its sovereignty while contributing to peacekeeping and championing decolonisation and the Palestinian cause.
Remember
- Joined the UN on 17 September 1957 as the 82nd member.
- Contributed to peacekeeping (Congo 1960, Bosnia, Cambodia and others).
- Opposed apartheid and colonialism; supported Palestine.
- Tan Sri Razali Ismail was UN General Assembly President (1996–1997).