Youth from 25 Countries Exchange Ideas at 22nd AYIMUN
A total of 750 young people from 25 countries met at the 22nd Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 21 to 24 August 2026. They took part in a simulation of United Nations sessions to discuss various international issues while honing their diplomatic skills.
The event, organised by International Global Network (IGN), was attended by delegates from Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, the United States and several other countries.
In the Model United Nations (MUN) format, participants acted as country representatives and engaged in discussions on global issues through a number of forums or councils. Delegates were required to conduct research, present their views, negotiate and draft joint resolutions.
President of International Global Network Muhammad Fahrizal said MUN is not only oriented towards awards or the role of representing a country, but also serves as a space to practise skills that can be used in real life.
“MUN is a place where you practise various skills that will be needed in real life. The first skill is the courage to speak. The second skill is the humility to listen. The third skill is learning how to disagree without belittling one another. The fourth skill is the willingness to try before you feel completely ready,” Fahrizal said in a statement on Tuesday (25/8/2026).
A representative of the Malaysian government, Azlinda binti Azman, said youth involvement in international forums is important for building cross-cultural understanding amid various global challenges.
“AYIMUN provides a platform for the younger generation to connect across national borders, get to know different perspectives, gain knowledge, build empathy and, most importantly, learn to listen and propose solutions together with others,” she said.
Minister Counsellor for Information, Media and Socio-Cultural Affairs at the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Fery Iswandi, also encouraged participants to use the forum to exchange ideas and discuss issues facing the global community, including air pollution and industrial waste.
“I hope you can make the most of this opportunity to learn, build friendships, exchange ideas and develop yourselves as future leaders. And most importantly, make your voices heard,” Fery said.
Over four days, the 22nd AYIMUN featured eight councils discussing various international issues and global challenges. Participants were also divided into Beginner and Intermediate levels for the Junior and Youth Council categories according to their respective experience and abilities.
Through the forum, delegates practised public speaking, understood different perspectives, built compromises and formulated joint solutions to the issues discussed.
After the 22nd AYIMUN, IGN will continue its international agenda for young people through Asia World Model United Nations XV (AWMUN XV) in Bali on 2-5 October 2026. The 23rd AYIMUN is then scheduled to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, on 25-30 October 2026.