KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 — Palestinian students in Malaysia have expressed deep gratitude to Malaysia and its people for always advocating the Palestinian cause.
Said Aljamala, 28, a PhD candidate in structural engineering at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), believes Malaysia's unwavering support should serve as a model for other Islamic nations.
"Recently, I was informed the 'Malaysia Stands with Palestine Rally' will be held at the Axiata Arena Stadium, Bukit Jalil, today. Although I cannot attend the rally due to circumstances about my studies, I understand my fellow countrymen will join this rally. Such initiatives have deeply touched us, the Palestinian people.
"We must understand the battle for the state of Palestine is a struggle shared by all Muslims, and Malaysia has demonstrated a resolute dedication to it. I sincerely hope that by holding a solidarity rally like this, we will all be able to demonstrate to the world that Muslims are a cohesive community that is always sensitive to the situation of their brothers and sisters," he said when contacted by Bernama today.
Said said an Israeli military bombing had recently destroyed his family's home in Al-Sabra, located south of Gaza City. Fortunately, all seven of his family members could flee the region before the attack.
He has made numerous attempts to get updates on developments from his family members, but has been mostly unsuccessful owing to the absence of Internet and electricity in the area.
"Even though getting in touch with them is tough, I always pray they will persist and be safe there. Given this, I hope all Malaysians will always be grateful for the independence and peace they currently have and will never take it for granted," Said said.
Meanwhile, a doctorate student from UPM's Faculty of Medicine and Science, who wants to be known as only Zidan, 29, said she is forever indebted to Malaysians of all religions and races for their solidarity with Palestine.
"I once participated in a rally to condemn the brutality of the Israeli military regime in front of the United States embassy in Kuala Lumpur. I noticed that besides Muslims, the attendees included non-Muslims and people of other races, like the Chinese and Indians.
"This illustrates how the fight for human rights is a worldwide endeavour involving everyone. Even though I am currently somewhat concerned for my family's safety in Gaza, I can feel less anxious if everyone in Malaysia could just lend a little support," she said.
Zidan has been facing difficulties contacting her family members in the north of Gaza City since the war broke out on October 7.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to deliver a special address at the Malaysia Stands with Palestine Rally involving thousands of people.
The rally is jointly organised by Global Peace Mission (GPM) Malaysia, Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (Abim) and Malaysian Humanitarian Aid and Relief.
— Bernama
