KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail has called on Asean and the global community to stand united against the destruction and human suffering being experienced by the people of Gaza.
The Bandar Tun Razak MP said the atrocities unfolding in Gaza have created profound human suffering due to the complete destruction of schools, hospitals and livelihoods.
“Our work will feel hollow if we do not confront the profound human suffering in Gaza as the very foundations of a society are being systematically destroyed.
“We are witnessing scholasticide, the targeted destruction of schools and universities, robbing an entire generation of their right to an education and a future.
“Even hospitals, which should be sanctuaries of healing, have become targets.
“Hunger is no longer a tragic byproduct of conflict but now used as a weapon,” she said at the Asean Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Summit yesterday.
The wife of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also stressed that the region’s solidarity with the people of Gaza must be unwavering if “we truly wish to build a peaceful world”.
“This is not the world we want for any child, in any nation and our support for the people of Palestine must be unwavering.
“We must demand an end to these atrocities and commit to building a world where Palestinian children can also know peace and security.”
Her remarks drew applause from delegates of the two-day summit, which brought together policymakers, experts and civil society leaders from across Asean.
Dr Wan Azizah also noted the progress and challenges faced in strengthening women’s role in peace and security across the region, noting Malaysia’s recent National Action Plan on WPS marked a serious commitment.
She said effective implementation of the plan depends on partnerships, accountability and active involvement across all levels of government and society.
