SAN FRANCISCO: The decline and erosion of multilateralism and the respect for international law have been shown with the frightening unfolding in Gaza as an evident.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry. Abd. Kadir said, peace and development are interrelated. Geopolitical and geo-economic tensions are further fuelling polarisation.
“Our conscience would dictate that all human lives and dignity are valuable. The killing of innocent civilians including women and children under any circumstances by any side can never be justified.
“We cannot be selective to human suffering. The double standards and hypocrisy must stop.
“For a sustainable, equitable and inclusive future for all, we need to build trust; bridge the growing divide; and address fundamental issues plaguing the world including the increasing conflicts that divide us,” Zambry said at the 34th APEC Ministerial Meeting Plenary session here on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, on another development, Israel has launched relentless air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip which has caused more than 11,000 Palestinians to be killed, including over 7,800 women and children, while over 29,000 others have been injured to date.
Zambry also emphasized that Malaysia as one of the founding members of APEC, takes great pride in the progress made by APEC on issues of importance to the vibrant Asia-Pacific region.
“However, we cannot deny the increasing divide and disparity between the richer and poorer economies. Many developing economies are still battling the impacts of disruptions to supply chains; food insecurity; and the climate crisis.
“The global call to rescue and accelerate the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda is telling. The hard lessons from COVID-19 revealed the fragility of our supply chains. The conflicts around the world exacerbated the situation.
“The solution lies not in heightened protectionist and unilateral measures that impedes socio-economic development. We need to ensure a more resilient global supply chain that benefit all and not a few,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Minister has also highlighted on Malaysia as it recognises the importance of cyber-security in safeguarding critical aspects of the Digital Economy.
In this regard he said, the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) has been tasked to enhance Malaysia’s resilience against the looming challenges posed by cyber threats.
“In the endeavour to enhance Malaysia’s overall resilience and response to the escalating cyber threats, Malaysia is currently pursuing to introduce a Cyber Security Bill soon.
“This bill, when realized, will validate Malaysia’s proactive stance in reinforcing its capacity to counter cyber threats effectively; as they ensure the security and stability of our nation,” he said.
The Foreign Affairs Minister also reiterated that the bill would also incorporate capabilities to anticipate and adapt to the evolving landscape of digital technologies.
By doing so he added, Malaysia wants to position itself as a safe and reliable destination for both domestic and international investments. – Malaysia World News
