KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 31 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s foreign policy regarding the struggles of Muslims in Palestine and Gaza should not be questioned or trivialised based on shallow reasoning and negative perceptions.
Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM) president Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s efforts in supporting the Palestinian cause should be fully backed, as they do not hinder Malaysia’s economic development.
On the contrary, he said these efforts are complemented by contributions from concerned Malaysians, demonstrating national solidarity in assisting the oppressed people of Palestine.
“In today’s increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape, Malaysia’s firm stance on Palestine not only strengthens the principles of global justice but also positions the country strategically at the international level.
“This support further enhances Malaysia’s role as a respected nation in global diplomacy and creates opportunities for strategic cooperation with other countries,” he said in a statement today.
Ahmad Fahmi was responding to a statement by a prominent figure who questioned the Prime Minister’s efforts in aiding the reconstruction of mosques and schools in Gaza.
He stressed that this initiative reflects Malaysia’s commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian assistance, aligning with Islamic principles that advocate compassion for the global community.
At the same time, he noted that Malaysia’s active efforts to defend the dignity and rights of the people in Gaza and Palestine have never come at the expense of critical infrastructure development such as schools and hospitals in the country.
For instance, he said 44 new schools are set to be built, as announced in the Budget 2025 presentation. Additionally, RM1.35 billion has been allocated to enhance the quality of the country’s healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of new hospitals in the future.
Yesterday, the media reported that former Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, suggested that the government should prioritise addressing domestic issues before committing to the reconstruction of Gaza.
-- BERNAMA
