PUTRAJAYA: Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming will lead the Malaysian delegation to the headquarters of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi, Kenya, next week to participate in the UN-Habitat General Assembly (UNHA).
In a statement Saturday (May 24), the Housing and Local Government Ministry said this marks a significant milestone for Malaysia, as the country is contesting for the presidency.
"If elected, Malaysia will lead this key UN body, which comprises 193 member states, for the 2026-2029 term," the statement said.
The Ministry said the second session of the UN-Habitat Assembly will take place at the UN-Habitat headquarters in Nairobi on May 29 and 30, during which the presidential election will be held.
"If elected, it would be the first time in 15 years that a Malaysian has chaired a UN body, since Tan Sri Hamidon Ali served as United Nations Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc) president in 2010.
"Previously, Tan Sri Razali Ismail held the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) from 1996 to 1997, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim served as United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) president in 1988," it said.
Meanwhile, Nga emphasised that if Malaysia is elected to this significant position, it would not only elevate the country's voice on the international stage but also provide an opportunity to lead and shape global sustainable urban development agendas affecting billions of people worldwide.
"This is not just a diplomatic honour but also a valuable opportunity to demonstrate our capability in international policymaking. By assuming this role, we not only represent Malaysia but also strengthen global communities, working together towards more livable and lovable cities," he said.
The official results of the election for the UN-Habitat presidency will be announced on May 30.
In addition, Nga is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with leaders from Kenya, Mexico, Azerbaijan, China, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during his visit to Nairobi.
The UNHA is the highest-level, decision-making body on sustainable urbanisation and human settlements within the UN system. It convenes every four years to set key issues and policy priorities for UN-Habitat's work. — Bernama
