‘I don’t want to speak about others, I stand to defend the Palestinians,’ Siti Nurhaliza on Blockout 2024 movement

SERDANG - Malaysian singer Datuk Siti Nurhaliza has taken a bold stance admist the recent 'Blockout 2024' movement, asserting her solidarity with the Palestinian people.

However, she made it clear that her stance was not on discussing about celebrities who have been listed in the Blockout 2024 movement, but rather expressing herself as a Muslim.

"For me, I don't want to speak about others, but I stand to defend the Palestinian people.

"Muslims are often criticised for helping fellow Muslims, people of other religions also live in our diverse country so we should respect each other.

"We should stand up and raise our voices, and we need to help our fellow Muslims," she told the media at Mum2Mum programme held in Farm Fresh.

The Blockout 2024 movement, which gained momentum overseas before spreading to Malaysia, has sparked heated debates and controversies.

The movement involves individuals boycotting or 'blocking out' celebrities who remain silent or express neutrality on issues concerning social justice and human rights, particularly the plight of the Palestinian people.

"We all need to ask ourselves why we oppose this. Everyone has their reasons.

"As Muslims, we need to know where we stand and what we can defend, and we should defend it," she said.

The Blockout 2024 movement has seen several Malaysian celebrities, including some celebrities being placed on the 'blockout list' who promote or support Israel-related brands and products on social media.

Malaysian netizens listed Siti Saleha, Nabila Razali, Nadhir Nasar, Mira Filzah, Neelofa, Awal Ashaari, Scha Alyahya, and many more.

International names currently boycotted include Taylor Swift, Kim Kardashian, Blackpink, Lady Gaga, and Justin Bieber.

This has led to widespread discussions on social media platforms and within Malaysian society about the responsibilities of public figures in speaking out against injustice and oppression.