KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is unable to be directly involved in South Africa’s application to institute proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel over violations on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said South Africa’s application is tied to the Rome Statute, which Malaysia had not signed as there are provisions in the statute that could not be agreed on.
However, Anwar said South Africa President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, in their previous meetings, had said that Malaysia could still voice support for the latter’s application despite not having the same status.
“Moving forward, perhaps our select committee can hold discussions with the respective parties to review the Rome Statute's provisions.
“If there is an agreement, we can proceed.
“But, I must mention that we have concerns when comparing it to the federal Constitution and the status of the Malay Rulers,” he said during Prime Minister's Question Time on Thursday (Nov 28).
Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman (PN-Sik) had asked whether Malaysia would be taking more concrete measures in voicing out against the genocide in Gaza and joining South Africa’s application.
He also asked whether Malaysia would be considering to file its own claim against Israel with the ICJ.
In December last year, South Africa filed an application to institute proceedings against Israel concerning violations of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip to the ICJ.
The proceedings against Israel come under the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the "Genocide Convention”).
The application by South Africa also includes a request for the Court to indicate provisional or short-term measures ordering Israel to stop its military campaign in Gaza.
Separately, Anwar said he was unable to attend some international summits owing to various factors.
“For example, the recent BRICS summit is something I consider very important, but it also coincided with the Conference of Rulers with very important matters to be discussed.
“I apologise for not being able to attend all summits.
“However, the presence and speeches delivered by our Foreign Minister (at international summits) represents the government and people,” he said.
He was responding to a supplementary question by Ahmad Tarmizi who asked why the Prime Minister did not attend the United Nations General Assembly this year.
