Berlin, May 15 – In a proud moment for the nation, Malaysia has been internationally recognised for championing the role of women in global peace efforts. At the prestigious UN Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025 forum held in Berlin, Malaysia received an award celebrating the meaningful participation of its female peacekeepers in United Nations missions.
Behind this recognition lies the dedication and courage of Malaysian women serving in conflict zones—particularly those in the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil). These women are not only fulfilling their duties but are also meeting the benchmarks of the UN’s Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy (UGPS), which aims to ensure better gender balance in peacekeeping forces.
Currently, 10.5% of Malbatt Unifil’s personnel are women—a significant stride in a field long dominated by men. But Malaysia’s commitment goes beyond just Lebanon. Female personnel from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) are also serving as military observers and staff in several other UN missions, including Monusco in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Minurso in Western Sahara, and Unisfa in Abyei.
“This award is more than a symbol. It’s a testament to Malaysia’s active role in promoting peace and gender equality on a global stage,” the MAF said in a heartfelt statement.
The honour places Malaysia among a select group of countries—Fiji, Guatemala, Kenya, Malawi, Mongolia, and Tanzania—who are also leading the charge in integrating women into peacekeeping operations.
Representing Malaysia at the ceremony were Lt-Gen Datuk Azhan Md Othman, Chief of Staff at MAF Headquarters, and Colonel Shamsuri Noordin, Military Adviser to Malaysia’s Permanent Mission to the UN.
Just a day before, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin reaffirmed Malaysia’s strong commitment to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, reiterating the country’s determination to empower more women in peacekeeping missions.
This award is not just a win for Malaysia—it’s a tribute to every woman in uniform who steps into volatile regions with courage, compassion, and the hope of making the world a better place.
