United Nations in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Malaysia:

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14 April 2026

UN Country Results Report Malaysia 2025: Advancing Malaysia’s SDG Journey

Download the report hereThe 2025 Country Results Report presents a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system’s collective achievements in Malaysia during the final year of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021–2025).This report reflects the dedicated efforts of agencies and colleagues across the UN Country Team (UNCT) and our partners. Drawing on data from the UN INFO platform and aligned with UN development system reforms, it demonstrates the strength of coordinated action under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator and the shared commitment to deliver as One UN.In 2025, the UNCT supported national efforts to advance a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient future. Key results included strengthening health and education systems, expanding access to social protection, and promoting inclusive economic opportunities. Cross-cutting priorities—such as gender equality, human rights, disability inclusion, youth participation, climate action and good governance—were systematically integrated across programmes.Guided by the principle of Leaving No One Behind, the UN Country Team delivered targeted support to vulnerable and underserved populations. The Malaysia–UN SDG Trust Fund, a pooled financing mechanism managed by the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator (UN RCO), enabled integrated, locally driven solutions targeting populations and areas most at risk of being left behind.The UNCT remains committed to building on these achievements in the next Cooperation Framework cycle (2026–2030), strengthening partnerships, scaling innovation and enhancing collective impact in support of Malaysia’s national priorities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

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23 April 2026

When crisis hits, children pay first — and longest

For a child going to school on an empty stomach, an economic crisis is not a statistic—it is hunger, fatigue, and lost opportunity.Malaysia is navigating one of its most complex economic shocks in a generation and across the country, more families are being pushed into harsh realities as economic pressures intensify.Since the conflict in West Asia closed the Strait of Hormuz in late February, fuel prices have surged and food costs have risen. Formal-sector job losses in the first quarter of 2026 reached 24,100—a 47 per cent jump over the same period last year.The federal government has moved to shield Malaysians from rising fuel costs through the BUDI 95 subsidy, while extending diesel subsidies to key groups, including farmers, smallholders, selected public transport operators, and goods and logistics vehicles. At the state level, Selangor has introduced a RM130 million resilience package that includes free breakfasts for children in all 873 government schools, while Sarawak has expanded basic needs assistance and extended electricity subsidies to over 700,000 households.These are meaningful acts of political will to protect the Rakyat, and they deserve full recognition.But these efforts point to a critical reality: children are absorbing a disproportionate share of this crisis, and its effects will outlast the conflict itself.Malaysia’s data show that households with children are more likely to live in poverty than those without. As food prices rise—driven by higher costs across the supply chain, including fertilizer and transport—families’ incomes take a direct hit. With no cushion for emergencies, even drastic decisions, such as cutting back on essentials such as food, become reality.It is a child who gets a smaller breakfast before school—or none at all.It is a Grab driver who cannot repair his motorcycle chain when it snaps and loses precious workdays. It is a small fruit or vegetable farmer in Kedah or Sabah, struggling with rising fertilizer costs that squeeze the profit that keeps the family afloat.What concerns me most however, is the long-term impact on a generation of children and what it means for the future of Malaysia.Let us focus on one critical impact channel: the reduction in the quantity and quality of food—particularly concerning in Malaysia, where 1 in 5 children are stunted.When families cut back on food, children pay the highest price. Nutritional deficits weaken immunity and physical growth in the short term. They disrupt brain development and learning over time, ultimately reducing educational attainment, productivity, and lifelong health.When this happens early—especially in the first 1,000 days—the effects can be irreversible, perpetuating cycles of poor health, poverty, and underdevelopment across generations, and deepening inequality from a young age.These risks are not hypothetical. UNICEF Malaysia’s Living on the Edge study, based on research in Kuala Lumpur’s low-cost flats, documented how families respond to increased cost of living by cutting back on food and other essentials—even before the oil crisis began.Malaysia has a strong social protection system, with STR, SARA, school feeding programmes, universal healthcare, and PERKESO insurance systems at the forefront.But the system is not yet designed with children at its centre.For example, the unemployment scheme provides the same payout for a person with three children under their care as it does for someone with no dependents. Furthermore, SARA excludes fresh fruits and vegetables—critical for a child’s healthy development—and the one-off version excludes children altogether. Finally, the RMT school meal programme, which reaches 870,000 children, has not been adjusted for inflation since 2022, nor expanded to cover more children beyond those in hardcore poverty, many of whom still need support.These shortcomings require urgent attention—not a new programme, nor a new agency, but a child-sensitive recalibration of the system as a whole. That means fine-tuning existing design rules, benefit levels, eligible items, and coverage to reflect the real costs and vulnerabilities of raising children, and to protect their nutrition and development during shocks.Encouragingly, good practices already exist. A good example is the Bantuan Makanan Prasekolah programme, which ensures that all preschoolers in Ministry of Education and KEMAS preschools receive school meals regardless of income—so every child starts the day well-fed and ready to learn, even when crisis hits.Selangor's free school breakfast initiative is exactly the right approach, and credit belongs to the state for moving fast. Sarawak's long-standing universal investment in newborn endowments and maternal support shows that state governments can lead on child welfare. Child-responsive social protection systems are possible when they are prioritized.The federal government is managing real fiscal constraints. Choosing between subsidizing fuel for all and protecting the most vulnerable is genuinely hard. But the evidence consistently shows that investments in children—through school meals, child healthcare, and income support for families—are among the most cost-effective forms of social investment a government can make. The Global Nutrition Report estimates that every ringgit invested in preventing child stunting can yield returns of up to 16 ringgit through better health, higher productivity, and increased lifetime earnings.Yet the current BUDI 95 subsidy architecture is regressive, benefiting richer households to a larger extent, as they drive more and bigger cars.Early poverty analysis shows that removing subsidies and instead providing direct cash to 80 per cent of the population would be more effective in reducing poverty, while costing significantly less. At current elevated oil prices, replacing the BUDI 95 subsidy with a monthly cash transfer of RM300 would leave B40 households better off, reduce inequality, and create fiscal space to strengthen a child-sensitive social protection system.Economic shocks do not hit everyone equally. They fall hardest on those with the least resources to absorb them—and within that group, they fall hardest on children, who are least responsible yet carry the consequences the longest.Through Ekonomi Madani and the 13th Malaysia Plan, the Government has committed to building human capital from the earliest years and raising the floor for every family. As Malaysia charts its response, and as state and federal governments decide where limited resources go, one question must remain at the centre: How does this benefit children?The federal budget discussions ahead are a critical moment. The question of whether to introduce a universal child allowance, add a child supplement to EIS, or enhance STR and SARA to better respond to the needs of children will shape how this crisis is felt across households.These are not technical choices; they are decisions about whether children are protected or left behind. This is where Ekonomi Madani must deliver for children and their families.

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07 May 2026

Brunei Darussalam strengthens the Western Pacific’s early warning system with its national influenza centre

In February 2026, Brunei Darussalam reached a health security milestone with the formal establishment of a National Influenza Centre (NIC). Similar centres in WHO Western Pacific Member States collectively serve as the essential backbone of the early health emergency warning system in the Region, acting as a frontline defence against viral threats with pandemic potential.The mandate of an NIC is comprehensive, it collects clinical specimens year-round to monitor for zoonotic threats, including avian influenza and alerts WHO and national authorities to unusual outbreaks. Beyond surveillance, these centres perform sophisticated laboratory testing to identify virus types, contribute data for the development of seasonal influenza vaccines and provide scientific evidence needed to guide national policies on outbreak prevention.Reflecting on the strategic importance of this achievement, Dr Zainun Zaini, serving as both NIC Director and Acting Director of the Department of Laboratory Services at Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam noted “the recognition of our National Influenza Centre is a critical step for both Brunei Darussalam’s national health security, as well as the wider region’s emergency preparedness. By integrating our laboratory capabilities into a global network, we are contributing to the regional diagnostic infrastructure not just for influenza outbreaks but also for other infectious diseases.”A partnership to enhance regional pandemic preparednessThe achievement was the fruition of years of effort by the Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam in close partnership with WHO and the WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza (Australia).The journey began in 2019, when the Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam designated the National Virology Reference Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Services as a prospective NIC, initiating a rigorous recognition process. By 2023, the collaboration intensified. WHO conducted a formal NIC-recognition mission, inspecting facilities and assessing compliance with international standards. Together with Ministry of Health, Brunei Darussalam, WHO supported the laboratory to act on suggested improvements and share data on influenza and other respiratory viruses with WHO’s Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System, a global mechanism and resource for surveillance and control of influenza and other respiratory viruses.Mazmah Ahmad Morshidi, Scientific Officer at the National Virology Reference Laboratory, described the journey: “The road to recognition required us to elevate every aspect of our operations. From refining how we share data with the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System to mastering complex testing procedures, the process was rigorous. It was about moving from a standard laboratory to a highly trusted and internationally recognized facility capable of delivering accurate, real-time data.”Elevating the early warning systems for influenzaTo bridge any remaining gaps, WHO led intensive capacity-building sessions, mentored the National Influenza Centre team to improve testing accuracy and evaluated proficiency in laboratory testing procedures. “Through testing and maintaining quality standards in influenza laboratories globally, WHO ensures that Member States have influenza laboratories that are operating at similar high standards of performance. We congratulate the government of Brunei Darussalam for its dedication and sustained efforts in achieving this recognition and advancing pandemic preparedness,” noted Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.The addition of Brunei Darussalam’s NIC comes at a critical time. Today, 57% of the Western Pacific Region has NIC coverage, an improvement reflective of both WHO’s sustained efforts over time and the ever-present risk of an emerging novel pathogen with pandemic potential. Many NICs have expanded their role to include integrated surveillance of other respiratory pathogens, leveraging their existing infrastructure for broader public health response.Influenza surveillance on Borneo: A One Health imperativeStrengthening influenza surveillance in Brunei Darussalam also has wider significance for Borneo Island. Shared by Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Indonesia, Borneo Island is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world hosting a range of wildlife species, including migratory and resident birds and mammals that can serve as reservoirs for influenza viruses and other emerging pathogens.In such settings, robust influenza surveillance acts as an early warning system at the human–animal–environment interface, where shifts in land use, biodiversity loss and increased human–animal contact heighten the risk of zoonotic spillover. The NIC also plays a critical role here in supporting rapid public health action before outbreaks escalate across borders.Brunei Darussalam’s NIC contributes to this One Health approach, which recognizes that human health is closely interconnected with animal health and environmental conditions. By integrating high-quality laboratory surveillance with regional and global influenza networks, the NIC also strengthens collective capacity on Borneo Island to monitor viral evolution, share data transparently and respond to threats that may originate beyond national boundaries.In this context, Brunei Darussalam’s recognition as a National Influenza Centre is not only a national achievement, but also a strategic contribution to safeguarding health security across Borneo and the wider Western Pacific Region.Since 2007, WHO has convened annual bi-regional NIC meetings to foster collaboration among influenza surveillance network members and ensure that evidence-based strategies are developed and implemented across the Asia-Pacific Region. By providing a platform for experts to share biological materials, diagnostic reagents and vaccine seeds, the network ensures that the benefits of science are shared equitably.As the world continues to navigate the complexities of infectious diseases, such milestones provide a blueprint for how national commitment and international cooperation can safeguard people and ecosystems.

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04 May 2026

One mother’s love, a stronger future for her child

In Kuala Lumpur’s low-cost public housing (PPR), housewife Ima spends her days caring for her three daughters. She used to work but left her job to look after her youngest child, Aaira. Like any mother, Ima hopes her children will grow up healthy and strong. But life has not been easy.Aaira, who is two and a half years old, is underweight for her age. Like many toddlers, she can be a fussy eater. “She used to fall sick often, and her health got worse. Even her speech is slower than other children.” ImaWith her husband as the sole breadwinner and work coming in irregularly, there are days when money feels especially tight. Still, Ima holds on to what she believes matters most to her children – love.For Ima, that love is shown in the meals she prepares each day.“Every ringgit matters,” she explains. Stretching her grocery budget requires careful planning and difficult choices. When money is tight, she buys one chicken and stretches it across several meals with rice. “The girls love fried chicken, especially Aaira,” she adds with a smile.When food becomes a daily struggleAcross many PPR communities, families like Ima’s are feeling the burden of rising living costs. “Rising food prices are putting increasing pressure on low-income urban families,” says Farqani Mohd Noor, UNICEF Malaysia Social Policy Specialist. “When households have fewer choices, young children are at greater risk of malnutrition during these critical years of growth.”UNICEF Malaysia’s research across PPR communities in Kuala Lumpur shows how deeply families are feeling the strain. One in two households are cutting back on food and some children are skipping meals altogether. When meals become less varied, young children miss out on the nutrients their bodies and brains need to develop well. Today, one in three children in PPR communities are affected by malnutrition, including being underweight or stunted.Yet, even in the face of hardship, one thing stands out. Parents remain determined to give their children a better future. ASUH KL Cash Plus Pilot InitiativeIn response, UNICEF launched the ASUH KL Cash Plus pilot initiative in October 2025, supported by the Ministry of Finance and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), under Belanjawan 2025. The programme provides RM 150 every month to children below five and pregnant mothers, alongside practical guidance on nutrition, feeding, breastfeeding and women’s health.“This “Cash Plus” approach recognizes that while financial help is essential in addressing poverty and financial constraints, social support and guidance are just as important in helping parents make lasting choices for their children’s health.”UNICEF Social Policy Specialist, Muhammad Farqani Mohd Noor Aaira is among some 800 beneficiaries – children under five and pregnant mothers – currently supported through ASUH KL.“At first, I thought it was a babysitting service,” Ima recalls with a laugh. Over time, the extra money helped her make better choices on daily groceries while easing her financial burden. “Food is expensive now. I use the money to buy food for Aaira.” Still, for Ima, the biggest change did not come from cash alone. It came from learning.Feeding a child, feeding the futureDetermined to help Aaira grow stronger, Ima attended a UNICEF-supported nutrition clinic at a nearby community library. There, Dr Lucy Lam, a paediatrician, and a team of nutritionists from Universiti Malaya shared simple, practical advice on feeding young children.In a warm and supportive space, Ima learned how to prepare balanced meals using everyday ingredients – combining proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals in her daily cooking. Encouraged, Ima began trying new recipes at home. “Before, it was mostly rice and fried chicken. Now, I cook vegetables, soups and different meals each day,” she says.She prepares simple, affordable dishes such as chicken soup with potatoes, carrots and onions. Slowly, Aaira’s appetite is improving. “Instead of just drinking milk, Aaira now eats rice and soup too,” Ima beams. With the added support and right knowledge, Ima can now confidently provide three healthy meals a day for her children. Learning that lasts beyond the cashThrough regular engagement with families and community-based sessions, UNICEF continues to shape nutrition-focused support based on what parents say they need most.“A quick pulse survey shows that more than 90 per cent of families use the assistance for their children’s nutrition, care and education,” added Farqani.As a pilot, ASUH KL is closely monitored to understand how this integrated social protection approach helps children thrive. The insights gathered will help the government strengthen and expand similar approaches to reach more communities across Malaysia. ASUH KL is not just about helping families get through today. It is about building a better future where every child, no matter where they are born, has the chance to grow up nourished, healthy and able to reach their full potential. With a little more support and the right knowledge, Ima can look beyond just getting through each day – and focus on helping her children grow stronger, one meal at a time.

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13 March 2026

Hope in the Classroom

By bus, by car, by bike and on foot, between 7:30am and 8:00am, Monday to Friday, primary school age children arrive at the JREC learning centre in Klang, Malaysia. With schoolbags almost eclipsing their little frames, they chat, giggle and shout as they excitedly run into class.The curriculum taught at JREC is the same as the school down the road, but children come here because as refugees in Malaysia, learning centres like this are the only option they have to get an education.With the humanitarian system facing catastrophic funding cuts, however, the few avenues available to refugee children to get an education in Malaysia are now at risk. The alternative to learning centres like JREC are mostly no schooling at all.JREC centres providing Rohingya refugee children with access to education “We started our community work with the refugees, specifically the Rohingya, back in 2006,” says Nur Datin Azlina Abdul Aziz, Executive Director of JREC and one of its founders. “And we were assisting the learning centres to help them secure funds to pay for their rental, utilities, and so on.”After seeing that the children were not progressing in their studies at these other informal schools, JREC founders decided to establish their own learning centres. “We believe that these kids have the potential,” she explains. “Given the opportunity, they can excel.”Persatuan Jaringan Islam Global Masa Depan – or JREC for short – is a Malaysian non-governmental organisation operating five learning centres for Rohingya children, following the Malaysian primary and secondary school standards.“We started this [Klang] school back in 2012,” recalls Datin Azlina. “And more than 90 per cent of our kids here, they are among the Rohingya refugees.”Malaysia hosts some 200,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, mostly from Myanmar. Without national refugee legislation to protect people forced to flee, refugees in Malaysia cannot access basic rights and services, including legal employment and public education. Alternative learning centres like JREC are the only place where refugee children can go to school.“Our main objective is to develop these kids, to nurture them to be the potential leaders of their own community in 10 years' time,” says Datin Azlina.Facing social and financial challengesOver the years, JREC has worked with a wide network of supportive partners, including UNHCR. It has also faced multiple challenges, including opposition within the community driven by xenophobia.“We understand people are talking bad things about Rohingya people and so on,” says Datin Azlina.“I remember when we attended one of the workshops along with other NGOs, one particular friend stood up and said there's no point of you teaching science subjects to the primary kids. Just teach them basic arithmetic, reading and writing. That's all.“We took that as a challenge. And we are very happy and proud to say that our kids are able to complete primary education, move on to secondary education, and after the end of the fifth year, they managed to sit for the public examination.” The academic success of the students was not enough to overcome all the challenges. Significant cuts to humanitarian funding in 2025 brought further difficulties to JREC, such as forcing them to suspend school transport services. Attendance and enrolment dropped as a result.“You're talking about kids who are staying in communities even 10 kilometres away, they do not have access to safe public transport. Parents are worried about the safety of the kids. So we have about half of them who are not coming to school since July. So that's very sad to see them away.”JREC has also had to reduce the number of classrooms at some of its learning centres, and close one centre in eastern Malaysia, leaving some 150 refugee children out of school.“The girls, of course you're talking about early marriage, and even that also they will have to go to work to help secure income for the family and so on,” says Datin Azlina.Remaining hopeful for the future, and for the childrenUntil JREC has the funds to restore all its classrooms and start providing transportation for children once again, the Monday to Friday morning giggles outside the learning centres are quieter than they once were.Datin Azlina remains hopeful for the future of the learning centres and for the children themselves. “When you look into their eyes, you know that there is hope for them for the future,” she says, surrounded by grinning 10-year olds.“So it may be next month, it may be next year, it may be in two years' time, we do not know [when] things will recover. And we are not going to give up.”“We really wish that one day, sooner or later, people will open their eyes and see that each one has to do something for these people.”

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08 March 2026

Half the Nation, Double the Potential: Unlocking Women’s Role in Malaysia’s Economy

MALAYSIA has successfully transitioned into an upper-middle-income economy, with sustained growth translating into higher incomes, improved living standards and stronger investments in social development. Against this backdrop, Malaysia must simultaneously navigate a rapidly transitioning demographic: an increasingly aging population and a rapidly declining birth rate will gradually place pressure on labour supply, productivity, and economic competitiveness.One of Malaysia’s most powerful yet underutilised economic resources lies in plain sight: women.Women make up roughly half of the population, yet their participation in the labour force remains significantly lower than men.According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, female labour force participation hovers around 56.6%, well-below that of men at 83.3%. This gap is particularly striking because Malaysian women are more highly educated than ever before and often surpass men in tertiary education. The challenge therefore is not capability, but opportunity and support.Malaysia must now harness the full potential of its human capital, particularly by encouraging greater women’s workforce participation. At the most fundamental level, greater inclusion drives economic growth by increasing overall productivity. On an individual level, women who have access to resources are better able to shield themselves from lifecycle risks and economic shocks.Further data analysis reveals a stark contrast between male and female labour force participation rates over a lifecycle.Malaysian labour force data reveals a “single-peak” pattern for women. Many begin their careers with strong momentum with participation reaching its height between ages 25 and 34, only to gradually leave the workforce over time.In contrast, several advanced economies display a “double-peak” pattern, where participation falls during childbearing years but rebounds later as women re-enter employment. Evidently, many women in Malaysia who leave the workforce do not return. Caregiving responsibilities appear to be a major factor.In fact, the 2023 Labour Force Survey found that 63% of women outside the labour force cited housework and caregiving obligations as the main reason for not working.In many households, women remain the primary caregivers for children, elderly parents and other family members.Economists often refer to this dynamic as the “care penalty.” When societies rely heavily on unpaid care work, women inevitably become the default caregivers at the expense of their economic agency.Without adequate are systems, women are compelled to navigate - and often choose between – productive and reproductive labour.To be effective, the discourse on female labour force participation must evolve from recruitment strategies to long-term retention. Closing this gap is not only a matter of equality. It is also an economic imperative.Greater participation of women in the workforce expands the labour pool, strengthens productivity and supports long term growth.But the benefits extend beyond that. Studies have shown that when more women work, families and communities flourish. The evidence is clear: Women tend to reinvest up to 90% of their earnings back in their children’s education and wellbeing. The impact of investing in women goes beyond individual; it is intergenerational. Encouragingly, Malaysia has begun taking steps in the right direction.Under the Ekonomi MADANI framework, the government aims to raise female labour force participation to 60 per cent by 2030.Recent policy changes under the Employment Act includes longer maternity leave and provisions for flexible work arrangements reflect growing recognition that workplaces must adapt to modern family realities. To strengthen the broader care ecosystem, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) partnered with the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development last year to develop the Care Action Plan and Strategic Framework. Building on this momentum, UNDP is now moving into the implementation phase, focusing on improving care-related data measurement and piloting community-based care models.These initiatives are designed to reduce barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the workforce, enabling more balanced caregiving responsibilities and supporting sustainable career progression. Sustaining progress will require commitment from policymakers, employers and society.With demographic shifts tightening the labour supply, unlocking women’s full economic potential is essential for Malaysia’s future growth.Harnessing the skills and talent of half the nation could double the country’s possibilities.

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02 March 2026

International Women’s Day: Eight Actions for A More Equal World

Over nearly a decade leading the United Nations, I have seen our world repeatedly tested – by climate shocks, deepening poverty, violent conflict and shrinking civic space. But I have also watched many solutions take root, and they shared one common denominator: women.As the world marks International Women’s Day, it is time to recognize that gender inequality is the greatest human rights challenge of our time – and advancing equality is one of the strongest drivers of sustainable development and peace.Here are eight actions drawn from my own experience, and inspired by the work of the UN system and civil society movements across the globe, to advance women’s rights and deliver results.1. Fix the Power GapGender equality is a question of power. But male-dominated institutions still shape our world. A rising tide of authoritarianism is deepening these inequalities, rolling back hard-won protections – from fair work practices to reproductive rights – and entrenching racial and gender biases that hold women back. Gender equality lifts societies. When power is shared, freedom expands.2. Make Parity a Priority Women are grossly under-represented in governments and boardrooms across the globe. At the United Nations, we set out to make gender parity a priority, starting with senior leadership. We did this by widening the search for qualified candidates, not by lowering standards. The UN is stronger for it, with an enhanced workplace culture and more inclusive decision-making. The lesson is clear. When institutions choose equality, results follow.3. Bet on the Highest-Return Investment Investment in women delivers outsized returns. Every dollar spent on girls’ education yields nearly triple the gains, while maternal health and family planning generate more than eightfold benefits. Policies that support families such as child care and elder care strengthen communities and unlock even more growth. Taken together, such steps lay the foundation for closing gender gaps – which can boost national income by as much as 20%.4. Make Room at the Peace TablePeace agreements are more durable when women take part in negotiating and implementing them. Yet in too many conflicts – including Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan – women have been largely shut out of the room, even though they carry the heaviest burdens of war. At a time of rising instability, inclusion is not symbolic – it is a shortcut to stabilize our fractured world.5. End Legal Discrimination Worldwide, women hold only 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men. In too many places, they cannot own property, work freely, or seek a divorce. Even where protections exist, women face higher barriers to access legal aid or the courts. Every country must commit to dismantling discriminatory laws, and to enforcing rights in practice. 6. Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence – and Zero ExcusesViolence against women is a global emergency, rooted in inequality and sustained by silence. Every woman and girl has the right to live free from fear. Yet gender-based violence – including sexual exploitation and abuse – remains a horrific breach of trust and humanity. We must confront it everywhere, with zero tolerance, full accountability, and unwavering support for survivors. 7. Code Out BiasWith women comprising just one in four tech workers, bias is being hardwired into the systems that shape daily lives. Meanwhile, misogyny is exploding online. Technology companies and governments must act together to build safe, inclusive digital spaces – and the world must do more to remove barriers for girls in science and technology.8. Put Gender in the Climate Plan Climate change is sexist. Women often eat last in food crises and endure greater danger in emergencies. Girls face higher risks of child marriage when livelihoods collapse. But women are also leading climate solutions – advancing green legislation, powering global movements, and driving change on the ground. A liveable planet demands gender-responsive climate policies, including equal access to green jobs, better protection in emergencies, and full participation in environmental decision-making.Across the globe, I have seen these eight solutions in action – in war zones and recovery efforts, parliaments and classrooms, organizations and communities.If leaders get serious about gender equality and commit to them now, we will change the world – for women and girls, and for us all.

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12 February 2026

Where every child can learn and dream

Read the original story hereAs we begin a new year, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to you. This January, as the world marks the International Day of Education, we are reminded that progress for children depends on timely support. Because of you, children are growing, learning and imagining a future full of possibilities. You are a Wira untuk Kanak-kanak and children in Malaysia and across the world are moving forward because of you.I would like to share a story from a recent school visit that shows what your support made possible, and why your continued support is needed now. My name is Azlina Kamal, and I lead Education programmes at UNICEF Malaysia. Recently, I visited a school in Serendah, Selangor. The teachers there have been trained through our Future Skills for All (FS4A) programme to better support children with disabilities, so every child can learn with confidence and dignity. Launched in 2020 with the Ministry of Education and our partners, FS4A helps make learning more relevant and inclusive for every child. Teachers are equipped with practical strategies, technology and creative teaching approaches, so classrooms can respond to different learning needs, including those of deaf/blind students.Because of you, classrooms like these are turning into spaces where every child belongs. At this school, I met Husna, fondly known as Una, a bright 12-year-old girl who is deaf. When I first saw her, she was quietly sketching scenes from her daily life and imagination.
Una was born with hearing loss and lives with her father and siblings. Without early access to sign language, school was often overwhelming. Lessons moved quickly and instructions were hard to follow. Learning, which should empower a child, too often left her feeling unseen and left behind.Sadly, Una’s experience is still the reality for many children today. Across Malaysia, around 4,000 deaf children in government schools face daily barriers to learning. These range from limited access to trained teachers and inclusive learning tools to stigma and gaps in digital access.For many, opportunities to build problem-solving, digital skills and creative thinking remain out of reach.This is why action matters now.
Because of Wira Untuk Kanak-Kanak like you, Una’s story has begun to change.Step into Una’s world. Watch how the right support is giving Una the confidence to learn, connect with others, and begin dreaming about her future. Through FS4A, Una’s teacher, Cikgu Muhammad Amsyar, learned how to use technology in simple, creative ways to support visual learning. One of these ideas became the “Totbin”, a hands-on learning tool that helps Una “see” numbers and connect Maths with meaning. "Una has fun using this tool. Her learning is improving quickly, and she’s excited to explore new skills, even coding."Cikgu AmsyarFor the first time, learning made sense.Today, Una is more confident. She participates actively in class and is proud of what she can do.But while Una is moving forward, many other children are still waiting. “Now I understand numbers. When I count, I can see them.”Husna Since 2020, FS4A has expanded across Malaysia, supporting nearly 59,000 teachers and students with and without disabilities in 3,600 schools. Teachers now have access to more than 120 practical strategies that make learning more engaging and inclusive.Yet demand continues to outpace resources.Globally, there are an estimated 240 million children with disabilities. Like Una, they need access to quality education to develop their skills and realize their full potential. Your support today can help make this possible.In 2025 alone, 6.9 million children globally, including children with disabilities, accessed education through UNICEF’s support. In 2026, we aim to reach 22.9 million children, including those affected by poverty, displacement, conflict and disability are not left behind. In Malaysia, RM1.38 million is needed to strengthen quality and inclusive education so that children like Una can learn in safe, inclusive classrooms that recognize her potential. Without timely support, children risk falling further behind, not because they cannot learn, but because learning environments are not yet ready for them.Your gift today can help train more teachers, adapt more learning materials and ensure classrooms are safe, supportive spaces where children like Una can keep moving forward.This is a moment where your action can make a real difference.Will you take action now and continue walking this journey with us?On behalf of children who hope, who dream, and who are eager to learn, I thank you for being a Wira untuk Kanak-kanak.for every child, quality education 💙With heartfelt gratitude,Azlina Kamal
Education Specialist and Lead

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Press Release

31 March 2026

UN Advisory Board names 20 city leaders in zero waste - Kuala Lumpur and George Town amongst the 20 selected cities.

Ahead of the International Day of Zero Waste on 30 March, 20 cities worldwide have been named the inaugural 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste, an initiative led by the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste, with support from UN-Habitat and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). The initiative highlights cities demonstrating ambitious and innovative approaches to reducing waste, advancing circular economy solutions, and building more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban systems.The selected cities are:Accra (Ghana), Bologna (Italy), Chefchaouen (Morocco), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Dehiwala City (Sri Lanka), Florianópolis (Brazil), Gaziantep (Türkiye), George Town (Malaysia), Hangzhou City (China), Iloilo City (Philippines), Kisumu (Kenya), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Lilongwe (Malawi), San Fernando (Philippines), San Fransico (United States), Sanya City (China), Suzhou City (China), Varkala (India), City of Yokohama (Japan) and Zapopan (Mexico).Humanity generates more than 2.1 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, making cities a vital part of global efforts to tackle the waste crisis and its impacts on climate, biodiversity, public health, and livelihoods.The 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste initiative aims to:Recognize city leadership and innovationPromote exchange of good practices and lessons learnedInspire other cities to accelerate their transition toward zero wasteSupport implementation of circular economy approaches at the local levelWhile still facing waste challenges, selected cities are implementing a wide range of solutions, including food waste prevention, organic waste management, reuse and refill systems, inclusive recycling models supporting informal workers, policies to reduce single-use products, and community engagement initiatives to drive behaviour change.José Manuel Moller, Deputy Chair of the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste, said: “These 20 cities matter, not because they have the best roadmaps on paper, but because they are turning ambition into action. What sets them apart is their willingness to implement real solutions, from source segregation and composting to reuse systems, informal sector inclusion, and citizen engagement. They are showing that zero waste is not a distant vision or a communications exercise. It is practical, local, and achievable when cities lead by example. At a time when many are still planning, these cities are proving that implementation is the real test of leadership.”Inger Andersen, UNEP Executive Director, stated: “Solutions to pollution and waste are opportunities to reimagine our economies through innovation, circularity, and equity. From strong producer responsibility models in San Francisco (USA) and Suzhou City (China), to refill systems in Bologna (Italy), and the inclusion of waste pickers in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and Zapopan (Mexico), the 20 Zero Waste Cities are proof of this.”“We commend the leadership and commitment of their citizens, authorities and the private sector. These cities can inspire communities around the world to accelerate action against the pollution and waste crisis,” she added.Anacláudia Rosbach, UN-Habitat Executive Director, said: “Cities are at the frontline of the zero-waste transition. Local and regional governments are managing waste systems; they are reshaping local economies, influencing consumption patterns, and advancing inclusive solutions that integrate informal workers and communities.”“This initiative underscores the critical role of cities as implementers of change. It demonstrates how local action, when supported by strong governance and partnerships, can accelerate the change toward more resilient, circular, and inclusive urban systems,” she added.The initiative contributes directly to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The selected cities will be formally recognized in connection with the International Day of Zero Waste and showcased on global platforms to share experiences and inspire further action.As urban populations grow, the leadership of these cities underscores the critical role of local governments in driving the transition toward a zero-waste and circular future.
NOTES TO EDITORS

About UN-Habitat UN-Habitat is the United Nations entity responsible for sustainable urbanization. It has programmes in over 90 countries, supporting policymakers and communities in creating socially and environmentally sustainable cities and towns. UN-Habitat promotes transformative change in cities through knowledge, policy advice, technical assistance, and collaborative action. About the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global authority on the environment. UNEP’s mission is to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. Through cutting-edge science, coordination and advocacy, UNEP supports its 193 Member States to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and live in harmony with nature. About the Advisory Board on Zero Waste The establishment of the Secretary-General’s Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero Waste (the Advisory Board on Zero Waste) was announced by the Secretary-General at the High-Level Meeting on the Role of Zero Waste as a Transformative Solution in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, held during the General Assembly on 30 March 2023. The Advisory Board was established for a period of three years. The 12 members that constitute the Advisory Board are to promote local and national zero-waste initiatives through awareness-raising, promoting local and national zero-waste initiatives, and disseminating good practices and success stories towards implementing United Nations General Assembly resolution 77/161. UN-Habitat and UNEP are the Secretariat for the Advisory Board. Under-Secretary-General for Policy Guy Ryder acts as ex-officio representative for the UN Secretary-General.For further information, please contact: Katerina Bezgachina, Chief of Communications, UN-Habitat
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme

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Press Release

15 December 2025

Age restrictions alone won’t keep children safe online, says UNICEF

UNICEF today reaffirmed that while governments are right to take online child sexual exploitation and abuse seriously, social media age bans on their own will not keep children safe online and may have unintended consequences. Recent enforcement operations against child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in Malaysia highlight the scale and urgency of the threat facing children in digital spaces. UNICEF welcomes the strong commitment by Malaysian authorities to tackle CSAM and strengthen online safety, including through the Online Safety Act 2025 and efforts to hold digital platforms accountable. At the same time, UNICEF cautions that age restrictions and bans must be part of a broader approach, not a standalone solution. “Families are overwhelmed. Children are encountering bullying, grooming and sexual exploitation online, and the status quo is clearly failing them,” said Sanja Saranovic, Deputy Representative, UNICEF Malaysia. “But simply banning younger users from social media will not solve the problem. Many children will still find ways to go online, often through less regulated platforms, where it is harder to protect them and they will be less likely to seek help when something goes wrong.” UNICEF emphasizes that social media is not a luxury for many children, especially those who are isolated, marginalized, or living with disabilities. Digital platforms can provide vital opportunities for learning, connection, play and self-expression. Any measure to protect children must therefore balance safety with their rights to participation, information and privacy. UNICEF calls for a comprehensive, child-rights-based approach to online safety in Malaysia, which includes: Stronger platform responsibilityRequiring social media and tech companies to redesign products with child safety and well-being at the centre;Implement systems and procedures to detect and block access to known CSAM;Investing in safer platform design, and effective content moderation;Providing child-friendly reporting channels and meaningful remedies when harm occurs.Rights-respecting age-appropriate designs and toolsUsing age-appropriate designs to offer safer, developmentally appropriate experiences for younger users rather than relying solely on bans;Developing rights-respecting age-assurance tools that are evidence based, proportionate to risks and privacy-preserving.Stronger regulation and enforcementEnsuring regulators have the powers and resources to require systemic risk assessments, independent audits and meaningful transparency from platforms.Support for parents, caregivers and schoolsInvesting in social-emotional and digital literacy and parenting support, so adults are not left to “police algorithms they cannot see” or monitor dozens of apps alone. “Online safety cannot rely on enforcement alone. Platforms, regulators, families, schools and communities must work together to create digital environments that are safe, inclusive and rights-respecting for every child,” said Sanja Saranovic, Deputy Representative, UNICEF Malaysia. UNICEF stands ready to work with the Government of Malaysia, regulators, industry partners, civil society, parents and young people themselves to ensure that every child can safely learn, connect and thrive in the digital age. Notes for editorsRead UNICEF’s Policy Note: Drawing a Line in Digital Spaces here. Read UNICEF’s report Childhood in a digital world here. Access UNICEF’s latest Guidance on AI for children here.

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Press Release

21 June 2024

Milestone World Refugee Day marker with first ever commemorative Khutbah sermon in mosques

For the first time, mosques across the Federal Territories of Malaysia will carry a specially-written World Refugee Day khutbah sermon for the Muslim community prayer service held once a week on Fridays. This will be delivered today during the Friday prayer service.UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency engaged Malaysian religious authorities to develop a khutbah sermon for the Friday prayer service, with messages of compassion, solidarity, and support for refugees. This is an unprecedented development in Malaysia, marking significant strides in more closely engaging Malaysian communities of the Muslim faith.The khutbah sermon will be delivered where the Friday prayer service is performed in all mosques under the administration of the Islamic Religious Department of the Federal Territory (JAWI) within the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan in Malaysia.The Friday prayer service khutbah sermon is delivered by the prayer leader, or Imam, to the congregation ahead of the commencement of the weekly prayers. In Malaysia, these sermons are standardised and coordinated by authorised state religious bodies.The special World Refugee Day khutbah sermon, titled "Humanitarian Crisis: A Test for Muslims", referenced global statistics on the refugee crisis worldwide and what it meant to be forced to flee.According to the text, “Refugees are not people who emigrate to seek a better life but rather leave their homeland to save their lives from oppression and tyranny involving race, religion, nationality, or social group membership. They deserve proper treatment and assistance to continue their survival.”The sermon called for compassion, and for Muslims to welcome refugees with humanitarian support.It stated, “Refugees are those who migrate to save their lives and religion from oppression and tyranny, not to seek a better life. Second: We are called to help alleviate the burden of refugees with any form of assistance such as shelter, food supplies, financial contributions, clothing, medical needs, and so forth. Third: Allah SWT is actually testing our faith in Him with the arrival of refugees and wants to elevate our status to become true believers (by protecting and helping refugees).”World Refugee Day is commemorated each year on 20 June to honour the millions of people around the globe who are forced to flee violence and persecution. The world community celebrate refugees’ remarkable fortitude and capacity for renewal, despite the daunting challenges they face.Forced displacement surged to historic new levels across the globe last year and this, according to the 2024 flagship Global Trends Report from UNHCR. The rise in overall forced displacement – to 120 million by May 2024 – was the 12th consecutive annual increase and reflects both new and mutating conflicts and a failure to resolve long-standing crises.In his World Refugee Day message, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi called on everyone to do more to show solidarity with refugees and work towards a world where they are welcomed, or can return home in peace.“At a time of division and upheaval, refugees – and those hosting them – need us all to pull together. We live in a world where conflicts are left to fester. The political will to resolve them seems utterly absent. And even as these crises multiply, the right to seek asylum is under threat,” said Grandi.Grandi said that a longer-term approach is key – sustainable action in education, energy, food security, employment, housing and more, working with states, development partners and others.He added, “Let’s not leave refugees in limbo; instead, let’s give them the chance to use their skills and talents and contribute to the communities that have welcomed them.“On World Refugee Day and every day, with courage, commitment and compassion, solutions are within our grasp.”Visit the JAWILink is external site for the full text of the World Refugee Day khutbah sermon for the Friday prayer service.

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Press Release

21 June 2024

#WorldRefugeeDay: UNICEF’s statement on access to education for refugee and stateless children

On World Refugee Day, we recognize the challenges faced by refugee children globally, who represent over 40 per cent of the world's displaced population. Of the 41,000 refugee children of school-going age registered with UNHCR in Malaysia, none of them have access to formal education. Only 34 per cent have access to informal education through alternative learning centres. This lack of access to formal education is also experienced by many stateless children in Malaysia.Education is a fundamental right, yet too many refugee and stateless children are not in school. Excluded from the education system, children are left without recognized credentials, social networks, mentors, or peer support. Additionally, their lack of legal status also puts them at risk of arrest and detention. As of September 2023, more than 1,400 girls and boys were reportedly held in immigration detention centres in Malaysia. As a result, refugee and stateless children struggle to live dignified lives, stunting their ability to grow to their full potential. All children, regardless of status, should have the opportunity to learn in school, in safety and without fear.The Convention on the Rights of the Child encompasses four interconnected and fundamental principles of non-discrimination, upholding the best interest of the child, the right to life, survival and development, and respect for the views of the child. As we commemorate World Refugee Day, let's remember that every child, no matter their circumstances, has a right to essential support and services like healthcare, education, and social protection. Together, we can work towards strengthening inclusive national systems that benefit all children in line with the Madani Government’s Ihsan, or Compassion principle.

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Press Release

25 March 2024

Statement by UNICEF Malaysia on the Citizenship Amendment Bill updates

Read the original statement hereUNICEF commends the government’s welcome steps to not proceed with proposed amendments relating to Malaysia-born stateless children, and foundlings. This decision reflects a responsiveness to public concerns and underscores a commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations, especially children. UNICEF acknowledges and supports such actions that prioritize the protection of children's rights, aligning with international conventions such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child.It is equally important to recognize that the remaining regressive amendments will impact certain groups of children and pose a threat to their fundamental rights. The proposed amendments, if implemented, risk depriving these children of essential rights to healthcare, education, and family unity. To ensure the protection of children's rights and uphold the principles of equality and inclusivity, it is imperative that these remaining amendments undergo comprehensive review by a Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC). This process will enable a thorough examination of the potential impact of the amendments and allow for the consideration of diverse perspectives and stakeholder input. By subjecting these amendments to full parliamentary scrutiny, we can uphold the integrity of the legislative process and make the best decision for all children in Malaysia.UNICEF stands ready to support the government in this process, building on partnership and joint commitment for realizing children's rights, for an inclusive society where no child is left behind.

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