Malaysia elected UN-Habitat Assembly president for 2025-2029
Housing and local government minister Nga Kor Ming described the presidency as 'a shared glory for all Malaysians', citing the country's efforts in sustainable urban development. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : Malaysia has been elected president of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) General Assembly for the 2025-2029 term.
In a statement, the housing and local government ministry said the appointment was unanimously endorsed by all 193 UN member states during the assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, today.
Malaysia takes over from Mexico, which previously held the presidency on behalf of the Latin America and Caribbean region.
For the current term, Malaysia will co-hold the presidency and a seat on the executive board with the United Arab Emirates, representing the Asia-Pacific region.
'Together, we will ensure that this assembly bridges global ambition with local realities,' Nga said in his acceptance speech.
'To strengthen multilateralism and the UN-Habitat agenda, both Malaysia and the UAE call upon member states to redouble their efforts in implementing the New Urban Agenda.'
Nga added that Malaysia's appointment reflects international recognition of the country's leadership.
'This is a shared glory for all Malaysians, as we continue to demonstrate our commitment and achievements in sustainable urban development, with 53% of our 156 local governments now leading Voluntary Local Reviews (VLR), putting us on track for full nationwide coverage by 2030.
'In co-presidency with the UAE, we stand ready to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and with steadfast dedication to the principles of the United Nations,' Nga said.
UAE's representative, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mansoori, director-general of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said it was an honour to jointly lead the assembly with Malaysia.
'This collaboration is marked by strategic coordination and a shared purpose for a better future,' he added.
Headquartered in Nairobi, UN-Habitat was established in 1975 and became a full UN programme in 2001.
It is the UN's top decision-making body on sustainable urbanisation and meets every four years to shape global policies for cities and human settlements.
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