The United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 was adopted on Dec 23, 2016. It addressed the issue of Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories occupied since 1967 and was endorsed by 14 votes.
In a rare move, the United States abstained. Malaysia, together with fellow non-permanent members New Zealand, Venezuela and Senegal, co-sponsored the draft resolution that was eventually adopted as Resolution 2334.
The Malaysian foreign service has long played an important role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and honour. Political diplomacy has always been Malaysia’s preferred approach, even before independence.
Its emphasis on moderation, dialogue and non-violence has often proven effective, including during periods of armed conflict. During the Emergency (1948-1960), the “hearts and minds” strategy helped counter the communist insurgency by winning over local sympathisers. Negotiation was also instrumental in ending the Confrontation with Indonesia.
Since then, Malaysia has consistently relied on negotiation and moderation to resolve disputes and conflicts. This approach has earned the confidence of the international community, reflected in the country’s four terms as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
The diplomatic success of Resolution 2334 was built on perseverance, hard work and Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause.
The Palestinian issue has long occupied a central place in Malaysia’s foreign policy because it embodies both justice and humanitarian concerns. Although the struggle has faced many setbacks over the decades, Malaysian diplomats have remained steadfast. Their dedication is an example for younger generations entering the foreign service.
The challenge now is to sustain that commitment. Malaysia must continue refining its diplomatic strategies and preparing for future challenges.
The Chinese military philosopher Sun Tzu, who lived more than 2,000 years ago, developed principles of strategy that remain relevant today. He advocated a holistic approach to conflict, one that extends beyond military strength alone.
According to Sun Tzu, victory depends on understanding both the enemy and oneself. Confidence comes from preparation, knowing one’s strengths, anticipating threats and having the capacity to respond effectively. Success requires sound strategy, capable leadership and disciplined organisation.
History offers many examples. The Finnish-Soviet Winter War (1939-1940) demonstrated how a smaller but highly organised force could use asymmetric tactics, mobility and terrain to inflict heavy losses on a much larger and technologically superior opponent.
In today’s increasingly polarised world, the lesson is not merely to strengthen diplomatic capability through technical knowledge and tactical skills, but also to cultivate strong alliances.
Malaysia may be a small country, but it has consistently championed justice, humanitarian causes and the fight against terrorism. Yet it cannot do so alone. Success depends on building partnerships with like-minded nations that strengthen its influence and effectiveness.
The countries that co-sponsored Resolution 2334 alongside Malaysia illustrate this point.
New Zealand has long championed environmental and humanitarian issues, both of which are closely linked to peace and human security. As a strong advocate for international justice, it regarded the plight of displaced Palestinians as a matter deserving global attention.
Senegal, meanwhile, possesses one of Africa’s most respected peacekeeping forces and places considerable emphasis on civil-military cooperation and social development. That philosophy naturally aligned with efforts to support vulnerable populations.
Venezuela, whose foreign policy has often diverged from that of the United States and Israel, also found common ground in opposing illegal Israeli settlements.
These factors alone did not determine their support. All three countries shared the view that illegal settlements were an obstacle to peace and undermined the two-state solution. More importantly, their shared principles made effective diplomatic coordination possible.
Malaysia should also strengthen cooperation with international non-governmental organisations. Organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have proven highly effective in documenting abuses and shaping international opinion.
The cooperation with the Israeli human rights organisation B’Tselem before the submission of Resolution 2334 demonstrated the value of such partnerships. Working with an established and credible organisation strengthened the factual basis of Malaysia’s diplomatic efforts and helped build wider international support.
Building strong working relationships with international non-governmental organisations not only increases the chances of success, but also reinforces Malaysia’s long-standing commitment to moderation, dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
The United States and the Soviet Union demonstrated the value of diplomacy during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Although both superpowers stood on the brink of nuclear war, negotiation ultimately prevented catastrophe.
In international relations, negotiation remains the most important tool during periods of crisis. An effective diplomat must be a skilled negotiator, possessing broad knowledge, adaptability and strong communication skills. Equally important is the ability to build networks with governments and non-governmental organisations that share similar values and objectives.
Many non-governmental organisations actively seek collaboration with governments that are committed to human rights and justice. Malaysia’s record of promoting peace and fairness, both domestically and internationally, provides a strong foundation for such cooperation.
If Malaysia wishes to expand its network of allies and strengthen its role as a champion of worthy causes, it should establish a specialised division dedicated to engaging international non-governmental organisations. Such engagement should go beyond occasional cooperation and develop into a reliable long-term partnership built on shared objectives.
Only then can Malaysia secure the sustained support necessary to advance justice and humanitarian causes on the international stage.
Zahir Zakaria is a former principal researcher at the Centre for Political Studies and Economic Diplomacy, Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not represent that of Twentytwo13.
