Walid Abu Ali bids farewell as Palestinian ambassador to Malaysia after seven years

SHAH ALAM – Palestinian Ambassador Walid Abu Ali has officially ended his tenure in Malaysia, departing Kuala Lumpur early Thursday morning after serving in the role since 2018.

The embassy’s Public Relations and Media Officer, Ola Ahmad confirmed the departure and stated that a successor had already been appointed and approved by the Palestinian leadership.

She added that the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) had also granted its consent, ensuring a smooth transition process.

“The new ambassador will arrive in Malaysia soon and is expected to join our embassy in the near future, likely in less than a month, to continue efforts to strengthen the solidarity between Palestine and Malaysia," she said.

Ola described that during the interim period, the chargé d’affaires at the Palestinian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur would assume responsibility to ensure continuity in diplomatic affairs and bilateral relations.

Walid, 68, who previously served in Brunei, the Maldives and Pakistan, held the post in Malaysia from September 21, 2018, until today, Oct 2.

Reflecting on his time in the country, Walid said he was profoundly touched by the “unparalleled support and solidarity” shown by Malaysians throughout his tenure.

He praised Malaysians for their dedication, citing public gatherings, humanitarian initiatives such as the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) and Malaysia’s principled stance in both regional and international forums.

“Solidarity rooted in a shared sense of justice has strengthened our resolve and left a deep mark on my heart, further solidifying the close ties between our two nations.

“Therefore, I call on Malaysians to remain united in championing Palestine’s aspirations for freedom and the right to self-determination. I am confident that the day is drawing near when we will together perform prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque and Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. Thank you, Malaysia,” he said.