PM Anwar Ibrahim praises Malaysian volunteers on Gaza flotilla as a symbol of national solidarity and commitment to humanitarian principles
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the courage of Malaysian humanitarian volunteers in Gaza has become a symbol of the nation’s steadfast commitment to universal principles.
He said that as major world powers remained silent, Malaysia openly supported the Global Sumud Flotilla’s humanitarian mission to the besieged enclave.
“When the flotilla was attacked by Israeli forces on Oct 2, and the humanitarian volunteers, including 23 Malaysians, were detained, we acted swiftly without delay,” Anwar posted on Facebook.
He stated that every moment was used to devise strategies and mobilise diplomatic channels to ensure the volunteers’ safety as the nation’s absolute priority.
High-level negotiations with Turkiye, Egypt, Jordan and the United States led to the safe release of all Malaysian volunteers, who returned home on Oct 7.
“Their bravery in crossing the seas and their steadfast resolve in defending our brothers and sisters in Palestine, despite being treated harshly in Israeli detention, reflect the strength of Malaysia’s solidarity,” Anwar said.
He expressed hope that this courage would continue to guide Malaysia to stand firmly with Gaza until justice is upheld for a free Palestine.
The Global Sumud Flotilla aid mission involved more than 500 activists from 44 countries, including Malaysia.
It began its voyage to Gaza in late August and early September to show solidarity and break Israel’s blockade by delivering essential supplies.
The aid flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in a restricted zone of the Mediterranean Sea on Oct 2, with all volunteers forcibly taken to the Port of Ashdod.
