Kota Kinabalu: Malaysia must continue to stand with the Palestinians, said Prof Dr Zanial Arifin Mustapha of NGO Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia, stressing that the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) remains an important effort despite being blocked by Israel.
Speaking at the State Mosque on Friday during a solidarity gathering attended by hundreds after prayers, he said the Palestinian struggle is not only a Muslim cause but a universal humanitarian issue.
He reminded Malaysians that Palestinians are being denied their most basic human rights, adding that the flotilla, though intercepted, has already sparked global awareness with support from parliamentarians, activists, and individuals worldwide.
Dr Zanial highlighted Malaysia’s long-standing involvement through NGOs such as MyCare, noting the commitment of figures like Dr Fauziah Hasan, who despite past detention by Israel has once again joined the mission.
He also urged Malaysians to learn the history of the conflict and recognise the Palestinians’ right to their homeland, while calling for continued aid and solidarity so that those living under siege in Gaza may one day achieve freedom.