Malaysia a resolute ally, say Palestinian students

Moved to tears: A woman reacts as she attends the solidarity gathering at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Palestinian students in Malaysia have conveyed their thanks to the nation and its people for advocating the Palestinian cause.

Said Aljamala, 28, a PhD candidate in structural engineering at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), said he believes that Malaysia’s unwavering support should serve as a model for other Islamic nations.

He said that although he could not attend the “Malaysia Stands with Palestine” rally at the Axiata Arena Stadium, Bukit Jalil, last night due to his studies, he understood that his countrymen would be there.

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“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,” he said yesterday, adding 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.

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Said told Bernama he had made numerous attempts to get updates on developments from his family there but was mostly unsuccessful due to the absence of the Internet and electricity in the area.

“Although it is really hard to get in touch with them, I always pray that they will persist and be safe.

“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.

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A doctorate student from UPM’s Faculty of Medicine and Science, who wants to be known as only Zidan, 29, said she was 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 US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

“I noticed that in addition to Muslims, those attending 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,” she said.