Johannesburg: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced his efforts to gain South Africa’s support for Malaysia’s nomination to various international bodies, including the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia is also seeking positions on the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The Prime Minister mentioned that this request was made during a courtesy visit to South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa.

Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to reinforcing ties based on solidarity, trust, and a mutually beneficial development agenda for the peoples of both Malaysia and South Africa. The IMO is a United Nations specialized agency responsible for the safety and security of shipping, while the ECOSOC is one of the six principal organs of the UN that coordinates economic, social, and environmental work.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) serves as the UN specialized agency for information and communication technologies, whereas the Human Rights Council (HRC) functions as an intergovernmental body within the UN. The UN Security Council is the primary organ responsible for ensuring international peace and security.

Anwar is presently on a four-day working visit to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, hosted by the South African President. The Prime Minister has been invited to the summit, scheduled from tomorrow until November 23, in Malaysia’s capacity as ASEAN Chair 2025.