PETALING JAYA: MCA condemns the interception and detention of Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) vessels by the Israeli navy en route to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president said that the detention of the volunteers – which includes Malaysians – is unlawful and a clear violation of international law.
“This action has denied the rights and freedoms of people worldwide who seek to assist Palestinians who continue to suffer relentless oppression by the Zionist regime,” he said on Thursday (Oct 2).
“Not only are Palestinian lives being cruelly taken and homes bombed, but they are also facing severe hardship with limited medical supplies and food shortages, causing many to die of starvation,” added Dr Wee.
He said that the GSF’s mission is purely humanitarian and peace-driven, aimed solely at providing aid and saving human lives, which have the right to exist and to enjoy a better future.
Dr Wee said MCA stands in solidarity with the detained volunteers and Malaysians and demands their immediate release.
He urged the public to pray for the safety of GSF volunteers worldwide, consisting of hundreds of volunteers from dozens of countries, including the Malaysian contingent, Sumud Nusantara.
The Ayer Hitam MP said he is confident the government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, will do their utmost to secure the release of the detained volunteers.
Several GSF vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces in Gaza waters on Thursday
As of 6am Malaysian time on Thursday, eight Malaysians were confirmed detained, including singer Zizi Kirana, whose real name is Nur Fazelah Mad Tahil.
Other Malaysians detained are Musa Nuwayri, Iylia Balqis and Sul Aidil from the vessel Alma, while Haikal Abdullah, Muaz Zainal, Zulfadhli Khiduddin and Rusydi Ramli were on Sirius.
The status of at least five other Malaysians on board GSF vessels, PU Rahmat, Norhelmi, Mohd Asmawi, Norazman and actress Ardell Aryana, remains unknown.
