The Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) recently played an active and influential role at the Red Cross and Red Crescent Statutory Meetings held at the International Conference Center Geneva (CICG) in Geneva, Switzerland from 21–31 October 2024.
The Statutory Meetings brought together humanitarian leaders from around the world to address urgent humanitarian issues, exchange ideas, and set future directions for humanitarian action globally. These meetings included the 24th General Assembly of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the 2024 Council of Delegates and the 34th International Conference.
The MRC delegation, led by Her Highness Dato’ Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz, Tunku Temenggong Kedah, MRC National Chairperson engaged actively in discussions, reaffirming MRC’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges and enhancing its humanitarian response.
The General Assembly (GA) gathered leaders from all 191 National Societies, providing a platform for vital discussions and decision-making on strategies, policies, and plans that would shape collective humanitarian efforts. The MRC delegation participated in various workshop sessions, engaging in interactive discussions and knowledge-sharing on best practices and innovative approaches.
Additionally, the 2024 IFRC Youth Forum brought together 85 youth representatives from National Societies worldwide to shape the future of humanitarian action. This gathering provided a dynamic platform for young leaders to share insights, foster connections, and address pressing global issues impacting communities. A key highlight of the forum was the election of the Chair and regional members of the IFRC Youth Commission—a body crucial for guiding youth engagement across the IFRC and National Societies.
MRC was delighted to announce that Ms. Michelle Shi Jie Chew had been elected Chair of the IFRC Youth Commission, a proud achievement for MRC and Malaysia. This marked a milestone for MRC, showcasing its commitment to inclusive and youth-driven leadership.
The 2024 Council of Delegates (CoD) provided a unique gathering that united all components of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to address urgent global humanitarian issues and set strategic priorities guiding their work worldwide. Through the adoption of key resolutions and strategies, they aligned on approaches to global challenges and strengthened their shared humanitarian mission. At the CoD, MRC expressed strong support for the Movement Migration Strategy, underscoring its commitment to uphold humanitarian principles, protect migrant dignity and ensure inclusive support for all.
2024 Council of Delegates: Adopted Resolutions
The 34th International Conference (IC) served as a forum where all 196 State signatories to the Geneva Conventions, 191 National Societies, the ICRC and the IFRC converged to address pressing humanitarian issues of common interest and concern.
Held every four years, the IC provided a unique platform for collaboration and dialogue among States and members of the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. Apolitical by nature, the conference remained focused on humanitarian action, united in its mission to save lives and alleviate suffering.
The conference agenda focused on pressing humanitarian issues such as compliance with international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and aid workers, the impact of digital technologies on warfare and enabling locally-led action.
34th International Conference: Adopted Resolutions
This year’s conference was particularly notable as it coincided with the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, underscoring the enduring importance of their values in protecting human dignity amidst evolving armed conflicts. The conference theme, “Navigate Uncertainty, Strengthen Humanity” highlighted the urgent need for enhanced cooperation in tackling global humanitarian challenges.
In a historic milestone, Her Highness Dato’ Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz binti Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Tunku Temenggong Kedah, MRC National Chairperson was elected Chair of the 34th International Conference.
As the first woman from the ASEAN region to hold this distinguished position, Her Highness Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz exemplified Malaysia’s global humanitarian leadership, guiding plenary debates, promoting consensus and ensuring the smooth conduct of the conference proceedings. Her role symbolised a significant achievement for Malaysia and reinforced the nation’s commitment to advancing humanitarian diplomacy on the international stage.
This year’s conference also featured strong participation from the Malaysian Government, underscoring Malaysia’s commitment to humanitarian issues.
The MRC supported by the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) actively contributed as members of the Drafting Committee at the IC, bringing Malaysia’s perspective to the formulation of key resolutions and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to upholding humanitarian principles on the international stage.
The MRC’s active engagement at the Statutory Meetings exemplifies its unwavering commitment to upholding humanitarian principles and addressing the most pressing challenges of our time. Our delegation’s efforts in fostering collaboration, driving key initiatives and promoting youth leadership stand as a testament to MRC’s mission to build a resilient and compassionate world.
The MRC remains dedicated to fostering a collaborative spirit within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to humanitarian principles and global solidarity. Through active participation and strategic leadership, we aim to inspire and drive meaningful change on urgent global challenges impacting communities worldwide.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported MRC’s journey, enabling us to make a lasting impact on the international stage through impactful humanitarian actions.
