Five Malaysian volunteers will join the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 as captains and technical crew for the largest-ever humanitarian mission to Gaza.
KUALA LUMPUR: Five Malaysian volunteers are set to depart for Europe to serve as captains and technical crew for the upcoming Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 mission to Gaza.
Cinta Gaza Malaysia (CGM) chief executive officer Muhammad Nadir Al-Nuri Kamaruzaman (pic) said they are the first Malaysians involved in the technical and boat-handling aspects of the international effort.
“The Malaysian volunteers have been selected to take on roles as captains, crew members, and technicians in the vessel’s preparation,” he told Bernama.
He added that the volunteers underwent a rigorous interview and screening process by GSF and Sumud Nusantara before being selected.
The GSF 2.0 mission, scheduled to set sail from Barcelona on April 12, will involve more than 100 vessels.
Muhammad Nadir described it as the largest flotilla mission in history.
Dozens of vessels have already been secured at various European ports and are undergoing final preparations.
“In terms of security, there are many challenges since we are preparing the largest flotilla mission in history,” he stated.
The organisation has set conditions for other participants, requiring readiness until at least mid-May and preparedness for all eventualities.
The flotilla is expected to follow a route similar to the previous mission, with stops in Tunisia and Italy.
The voyage to Gaza is anticipated to take about two weeks, depending on weather and potential disruptions.
“We expect Israel to act more aggressively this time,” Muhammad Nadir said.
He added that the large number of vessels may make interception difficult and that the mission is prepared for unforeseen measures.
Meanwhile, CGM strategic executive Muhd Haikal Luqman Zulkefli said almost 20 volunteers have participated so far.
This group includes members of the public and representatives from NGOs like CGM, Cinta Salam Malaysia, and MAPIM.
He said the group is the main force coordinating all matters related to participants and the operations of GSF 2.0.
