KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 4 — The “Himpunan Pembebasan Palestin” rally at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, here tonight sent a clear signal to the international community that Malaysia is steadfast in its solidarity with Palestine and will continue to demand its liberation from the Zionist Israeli regime.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the Palestinian issue is a universal, humanitarian question that unites all parties that have voiced solidarity with the country.
“Tonight, we gather as a sign that Malaysians, regardless of political affiliation, religion, race or ideology, are undivided in our solidarity and support for Palestinians’ struggle,” he said during his speech at the rally.
Zahid said Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran, Iran, recently, previously shared with him his hope that Malaysians would continue to provide not only moral support, but also material support so Palestine, especially Gaza, can be rebuilt.
He reminded Malaysians they should be proud of having a courageous leader like Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who has relentlessly championed Palestine’s liberation.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu concurred with Zahid, adding that Anwar, who is well-respected globally, is capable of creating a new world order to help Palestine gain freedom and independence.
“You (Anwar) are capable of creating a new world order, engaging Muslim countries that recognise Israel, and asking them to sever ties with Israel.
“Malaysia’s economy has recovered in less than two years, (and) the ringgit remains strong. As our leader, assist the countries that are against Israel, and those that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel, help them grow strong,” he said.
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail meanwhile advised Malaysians to set aside their differences and unite to support their struggle to demand Palestine’s liberation and self-rule.
He pointed out that the just course of action must unite Malaysians against the oppression and brutality of the Israeli regime.
“At the end of tonight’s event, we will pray and recite the Qunut Nazilah… not directed at causing discord among Muslims,” he said, adding that Malaysia’s efforts were not limited to supporting Palestine’s struggle, but also to assist its people through the Palestinian People’s Humanitarian Trust Fund introduced in October last year.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry, as the fund administrator, said RM97 million has been collected, with RM35 million spent, including RM5 million to pay for the education of Palestinian children in the country as of May this year.
Meanwhile, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong said Malaysia’s 1957 independence is incomplete as long as Palestine cannot enjoy freedom.
He urged Malaysians to support Palestine’s liberation as the crisis in the Middle East was a universal humanitarian issue and not just for Muslims.
“From 1948 till now, it’s already 76 years, let our generation, our era, our time, let us stand witness to a free Palestine,” he said.
Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, who shared details of his last meeting with Haniyeh when they attended the recent inauguration of Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, said Haniyeh told him Anwar should continue championing Palestinians’ cause.
“As soon as the swearing-in ceremony was done, he (Haniyeh) turned to look at me and the first thing he asked was, How is Anwar Ibrahim? He told me, please go back and tell Anwar to keep up his noble fight.
“Tonight, I wish to convey to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that Ismail Haniyeh asked him to lead us and continue to fight for the children in Palestine,” he added.
— Bernama
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