Accra:Malaysia is considering a proposal to co-chair The Hague Group alongside South Africa, though it faces legal challenges due to its non-party status in relevant international conventions, as discussed in the Dewan Rakyat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan highlighted that taking on the co-chair role could raise questions regarding Malaysia's engagement with international legal instruments, such as the Rome Statute, which might conflict with the Federal Constitution.

Mohamad noted Malaysia's active participation in the group, which aims to increase pressure on Israel over the Palestinian issue. However, he emphasized that Malaysia's current position as a co-sponsor is adequate given its non-party status. Recently, Malaysia joined South Africa as a co-sponsor at the United Nations General Assembly to escalate pressure on Israel, with efforts to present the matter before the UN Security Council.

International support for the Palestinian cause is reportedly growing, with approximately 160 countries backing Palestine's UN membership, signaling a shift in global attitudes. Malaysia remains committed to defending Palestinian rights through the UN, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, ASEAN, and other platforms. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has consistently advocated for the Palestinian issue at international forums.

Mohamad also reiterated Malaysia's call for UNSC reform, especially concerning the veto power, which he views as an impediment to resolving the Palestinian conflict. He stressed the need for a restructured UNSC to prevent arbitrary veto use.

On humanitarian efforts, Mohamad mentioned that Malaysian contributions to the Palestinian Humanitarian Trust Account are distributed through reputable organizations like the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and other NGOs to ensure aid reaches those in need.