BUKIT JALIL, Oct 9 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said last night that Malaysia is planning a second wave of humanitarian aid to Gaza even as he welcomed the return of Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) volunteers who had been detained by Israeli forces.
Speaking at the “Himpunan Solidariti Bersama Gaza” rally at the Axiata Arena here, Anwar said the government will hold discussions with Egyptian authorities soon to explore alternative routes for aid delivery into Gaza, particularly through the Rafah crossing.
“I think strategy and wisdom are important, after navigating the seas. Right now, there are negotiations. There are proposals that deserve serious consideration by myself and my Cabinet colleagues.
“After the tabling of the Budget, on Monday or Tuesday, I will call my friends for a discussion on how we can go through Egypt to break through the Rafah wall. And, if possible, next week after discussions, I will contact the president of Egypt Abdel Fattah al-Sisi,” he said to loud cheers from the crowd.
Prior to Anwar‘s speech, Sumud Nusantara Command Centre director-general Datuk Sani Araby Abdul Alim proposed that the government assist the coalition with its plans for a second humanitarian mission — this time through Egypt.
Anwar said that the aim is not only to deliver humanitarian aid but also to send a strong message to the international community that Malaysia stands firmly with the Palestinian struggle.
“Why is this important? To send a message that we support the Palestinian people and that the world must not remain silent.
“The world is not living in a barbaric era. This is the age of civilisation. People must be free and have access to food, water, medicine, schools and mosques, just like any other people in the world,” he said.
Anwar also drew parallels between Malaysia’s independence and the Palestinian struggle.
“If people question that, go back and learn the history of our independence. Malaysia is free and sovereign because we rejected British colonialism. So why should we allow Gaza to be colonised by Israel?” he asked.
The GSF, which carried food and medical aid, was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters last Thursday.
The Malaysians on board were detained and later released, returning home on Sunday night.
Two more humanitarian aid vessels carrying Malaysians were yesterday intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters, in what organisers described as an “illegal and inhumane” act.
Anwar also addressed criticism from some quarters accusing the Malaysian GSF volunteers of seeking publicity through their participation in the flotilla.
“When they arrived there, they were willing to stay out at sea, leaving their families behind, not knowing their fate. They were not going to Paris, they were going to Gaza, which is controlled by Israel.
“I respect them. We are proud of them, these young people are making history by being willing to fight for a cause. This struggle is not the same as just talking about it,” he said.
The rally saw thousands of Malaysians, including students, civil servants and activists, gathering to show solidarity with Gaza and the 23 Malaysian volunteers who joined the GSF humanitarian flotilla last week.
