Malaysia diminta jadi pengerusi bersama Hague Group, kata Mohamad

Malaysia has been approached to serve as a joint chair of the Hague Group alongside South Africa, according to Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan. The proposal, which emerged from Malaysia's firm stance in various international forums, includes Malaysia's consistent advocacy for international law violations, human rights, and other issues, Mohamad told Malaysian media after delivering the country's statement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

However, the proposal has not yet been taken up by the Cabinet, particularly Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, for approval. The Hague Group, established in January 2025 by eight countries including Malaysia and South Africa, aims to coordinate legal and diplomatic actions in handling international law violations related to Palestine.

Currently, Colombia and South Africa are designated as joint chairs, with Malaysia among the founding members. The Hague Group plans to host the Bogota Summit in July and hold a high-level meeting at the UN headquarters yesterday. Mohamad emphasized that blocs like Hague Group, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Group of 77 (G77) are crucial as they allow countries with similar positions to coordinate perspectives, present them to the UN, and contribute to decision-making outcomes.

"We know Malaysia is not a big power. If we stand alone, our voice will not go far," he said. "That's why Malaysia joins a group of countries that allows us to express shared views." Mohamad also highlighted ASEAN as another platform enabling middle powers to collectively increase influence in addressing global issues. He noted that international society increasingly pays attention to the bloc's stance on various global crises.

"When ASEAN speaks, it usually receives support from international society," he added. However, Mohamad cautioned that ASEAN needs to be cautious in handling global issues to avoid appearing to advocate for specific interests. Instead, the bloc should focus on issues like human rights violations and international law. "When such things happen, ASEAN will speak on behalf of its 11 member countries," he concluded.