Analysing Tun Mahathir's Persuasive Language in the 74th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

This study examines the persuasive language strategies employed by Tun Mahathir in his address at the 74th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Drawing on Speech Act Theory and Aristotle’s rhetorical modes, it investigates how political discourse functions as both action and persuasion. The research problem focuses on the ways politicians deploy speech acts and rhetorical appeals to shape global audiences. A qualitative design was used, with purposive sampling identifying the UNGA speech as the case study. Data were analysed thematically through a structured coding scheme supported by descriptive analysis. The findings show that assertive speech acts were most prevalent, reinforcing authority, while directive and expressive acts added emotional and ethical resonance. Furthermore, ethos, pathos, and logos were strategically interwoven to strengthen persuasive impact. The study concludes that persuasive political discourse emerges from a calculated interplay of speech acts and rhetorical appeals, with implications for political communication and cross-cultural studies.

Persuasive language, Speech Act Theory, Rhetorical appeals

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