Hasan announced the request at a news conference in New York after delivering Malaysia’s national statement at the general debate of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. He said other countries had approached Malaysia because of its outspoken position on international and international humanitarian law across global forums.
The foreign minister said the proposal has not yet been approved. Malaysia’s Cabinet, especially Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, must agree before the country takes on the co-chair role. Malaysia is currently a co-sponsor of the Hague Group.
The group was established on 31 January 2025 by several countries, including Malaysia and South Africa. It provides a platform for coordinated legal and diplomatic action in defence of international law, including on issues related to Palestine. Hasan said cooperation allows countries with aligned views to raise their positions together on alleged breaches of international and humanitarian law.
Malaysia also uses forums such as the G77 and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to coordinate positions and joint action. Hasan was in New York from 23 to 27 September to lead Malaysia’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly.