SHAH ALAM - In a powerful display of unity for Palestine, more than 780 boats carrying the Palestinian flag sailed along Sungai Kelantan on Friday, making it one of the largest solidarity events held on Malaysia’s East Coast, this year.
The symbolic event, “500 Pelayaran Solidariti Kelantan Untuk Gaza”, drew a crowd of over 15,000 people at Padang Lembah Sireh in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, reflecting Malaysians’ deep empathy and shared concern for the plight of Palestinians.
The gathering, supported by various local non-governmental organisations, served as a peaceful platform to highlight global humanitarian struggles and reaffirm Malaysia’s long-standing solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Speaking at the event, Dr Kartika Wati Mohamed, managing director of Eskayvie Sdn Bhd, the main sponsor of the initiative said the cause for Gaza extended beyond regional borders.
A Kelantan native herself, she said every individual carried a moral duty to oppose injustice and defend human rights.
“This event is not merely symbolic; it’s a reflection of our collective commitment to stand with the people of Palestine in their struggle for truth and humanity.
“Gatherings like this unite Malaysians from all walks of life. They send a clear message that we will not remain silent in the face of oppression. We speak out because we care,” she said.
Beyond its role as a sponsor for the event, she said Eskayvie has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts through its charitable arm, Yayasan Eskayvie, in collaboration with Cinta Gaza Malaysia.
Since last year, the partnership has channelled aid including RM200,000 worth of hot meals for war victims, public awareness campaigns and community engagement programmes in support of Gaza.
Dr Kartika said such initiatives reflected the belief that social responsibility should be at the heart of any organisation, transcending business interests.
“When the voices of the people unite, the world begins to listen,” she added.