Palestinian students thank Malaysians for unwavering support

KUALA LUMPUR - Palestinian students in Malaysia have conveyed their infinite thanks 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 that Malaysia's unwavering support should serve as a model for other Islamic nations.

"Recently, I was informed that 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 pertaining to my studies, I understand that my fellow countrymen will join this rally. Such initiatives have deeply touched us, the Palestinian people.

"We must understand that the battle of the state of Palestine is a struggle that is 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.

He said an Israeli military bombing had recently destroyed his family's home in Al-Sabra, which is located south of Gaza City. Fortunately, all seven of his family members were able to flee the region before the attack.

Said has made numerous attempts to get updates on developments from his family members there but has been mostly unsuccessful owing to the absence of internet and electricity in the area.

"Even though it is really hard to get in touch with them, I always pray that they will persist and be safe there. Given this, I hope that all Malaysians will always be grateful for the independence and peace they currently have and will never take it for granted," he 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 in addition to Muslims, the attendees included non-Muslims and people of other races, such as Chinese and Indians.

"This illustrates how the fight for human rights is a worldwide endeavour in which everyone is involved. 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.

She has been facing difficulties in contacting her family members in the north of Gaza City since the war broke out on Oct 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