The 19th of September 2019 witnessed the launching of the Foreign Policy Framework of the New Malaysia by Wisma Putra. The framework highlighted the course of action the present government shall undertake moving forward. Being broadly based of YAB Prime Minister’s speech at the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the framework maintains the basic elements of Malaysia’s foreign policy with the only thing changing is how Malaysia approaches certain issues affecting its interests.
Quoting YAB Prime Minister’s speech during the assembly, “The new Malaysia will firmly espouse the principles promoted by the UN in our international engagements. These include the principles of truth, human rights, rule of law, justice, fairness, responsibility and accountability, as well as sustainability”. The new framework takes a more consultative approach in the formulation of its foreign policy. For instance, the government has set up a Consultative Council on Foreign Policy (CCFP) consisting of representatives of diverse backgrounds to provide relevant inputs and insights from the varied perspective of the stakeholders. This is a significant step in the right direction and MBM hopes that CCFP would also include youth representatives in the council as the youths are also a massive stakeholder in foreign policy.
Generally, Malaysia aims to increase its efforts and dedication in areas such as territorial disputes, migration, terrorism, the IR 4.0, and the Muslim world. To play a proactive role and provide leadership in championing certain issues of interests and prioritise issues of inequality, fairness and justice, as well as democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law. The government also empowers the Ministry of Foreign Affairs giving it the flexibility to execute the foreign policies effectively and efficiently. Ultimately, MBM whole heartedly agrees on the direction the present government is taking with the foreign policy thus MBM gives its unwavering support and dedication to cooperate with the stakeholders to successfully carry out the outlined policies.
JUFITRI JOHA
President
Malaysia Youth Council
Date : 23rd September 2019
