MALAYSIA: TROOP CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE HYBRID

UNCLAS KUALA LUMPUR 001100 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR IO/PSC E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL KPKO UNSC MASS SU MY SUBJECT: MALAYSIA: TROOP CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE HYBRID OPERATION IN DARFUR REF: STATE 90022 ¶1. (SBU) We delivered reftel demarche to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Affairs, Bala Chandran. Bala advised us that the MFA has sought clarification from their Mission in New York concerning the nature of the relationship between the African Union and the United Nations. He acknowledged that Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi had commented to the press on June 25 that "If there is a request, Malaysia will send its troops," but explained that the United Nations had not yet approached Malaysia about troop contributions. Bala mentioned that Malaysia was waiting to see what Sudan's "African neighbors" were going to do to contribute further. We encouraged the MFA to relay to the UN its willingness to contribute forces and to follow through with the PM's commitment to the region. ¶2. (SBU) COMMENT: We believe Malaysia might respond positively if the United Nations makes a formal request for Malaysian support. The opinions and concerns, positive or negative, of other OIC or Arab League members could also influence Malaysia's willingness to commit troops for the hybrid mission. SHEAR