KUALA LUMPUR: Analysts believe Malaysia is well-positioned to play its role on the international stage by encouraging more nations to collaborate in the reconstruction of Gaza through diplomatic channels.
Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) deputy vice-chancellor (Academics and International) Prof Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani said that rebuilding the besieged enclave, which has been over 80 per cent destroyed, demands collective cooperation from multiple nations.
"We may not be able to fully rebuild Gaza on our own, but through democratic measures, we can partner with Gulf countries that provide financial support, as well as other nations,” he told Bernama.
In addition to funding, Mohd Azizuddin emphasised that the most crucial factor is the political commitment of all parties involved to ensure that the ceasefire, which began on Jan 19, holds, allowing development efforts to proceed without disruption.
In this context, he stressed that Malaysia should leverage its position as a middle power and as the 2025 Chair of Asean to further diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the enclave.
Mohd Azizuddin stressed that diplomatic and political efforts must be carried out in a cooperative and harmonious manner between all parties involved to successfully rebuild Gaza, as it is a complex and challenging task.
"We understand that the rebuilding process will involve Hamas, so it is crucial for Western countries, in particular, to engage in negotiations with Hamas to facilitate a joint effort in rebuilding Gaza,” he explained.
Regarding Malaysia’s role in the reconstruction of Gaza, Mohd Azizuddin stressed that all parties must offer realistic criticisms, acknowledging that Malaysia's involvement is just one part of a broader, collective effort involving multiple nations.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement does not place a strain on the economy, as the goal is to build mosques, schools, and hospitals,” he noted.
"This initiative is being driven by various countries, with Gulf nations expected to be the primary financial contributors to Gaza’s reconstruction,” he added.
Sharing a similar view, Prof Dr Jatswan Singh from the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Taylor's University said that Malaysia has sufficient resources to manage domestic issues while providing aid internationally.
"We need to provide assistance where it is needed,” he said.
Jatswan added that Malaysia could take on a more proactive role in mobilising support from Asian nations to contribute towards Gaza’s reconstruction, particularly through the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (Ceapad).
He noted that Malaysia holds a strategic advantage, especially after agreeing to co-chair the Ceapad Ministerial Meeting led by Japan this July.
"Malaysia must leverage its diplomatic influence to encourage more countries to initiate humanitarian missions and reconstruction efforts in Gaza,” he said.
On Wednesday (Jan 29), the Prime Minister announced Malaysia’s commitment to building a school, hospital, and mosque as part of its initial contribution to Gaza’s rebuilding efforts.
However, some parties have criticised the initiative, arguing that the government should prioritise addressing domestic issues first before committing to the reconstruction of Gaza.- Bernama
