PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is gearing up for a historic return to international leadership.
In a statement yesterday, the Housing and Local Government Ministry said its minister Nga Kor Ming (pic) will head the Malaysian delegation to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, next week to participate in the UN-Habitat General Assembly (UNHA).
Nga is set to take point the nation’s bid for the presidency at the second session of the UN-Habitat assembly.
This event will take place on May 29 and 30 at the organisation’s headquarters.
“If elected, Malaysia will lead this key UN body, which comprises 193 member states, for the 2026-2029 term,” the statement said.
“It would be the first time in 15 years that a Malaysian has chaired a UN body since Tan Sri Hamidon Ali served as President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc) 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 president of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) in 1988,” it said.
The election for the presidency, which rotates by region within the UN system, is expected to go to an Asia-Pacific country, following Mexico’s current term representing Latin America and the Caribbean.
In the statement, Nga emphasised that if Malaysia is elected to the post, it would not only elevate the country’s voice on the international stage but also provide an opportunity to help shape global sustainable urban development agendas affecting billions worldwide.
“This is not just a diplomatic honour. It’s a chance to prove our capability in international policy-making,” he said.
“We’re not only representing Malaysia, but helping to shape livable and desirable cities across the globe.”
Malaysia’s campaign highlights key urban priorities, including affordable housing, urban renewal and zero-waste initiatives.
Nga is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with representatives from Kenya, Mexico, Azerbaijan, China and the United Arab Emirates during his Nairobi visit, focusing on sustainable urban development and management, and aiming to ensure adequate housing through social and environmental approaches.
The outcome of the election will be announced on May 30.
