PETALING JAYA: “I’m afraid but I’m prepared for what may come, as the story of Gaza has to be told from the ground.” These were the words of the only Malaysian journalist on board the first wave of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) involving 25 countries.
Astro Awani journalist Syafik Shukri Jalil, 33, has been on board the Conscience with other media and medical volunteers, since Sept 30.
“It has always been my dream to enter Gaza since I became a journalist. This mission is to break the siege and the illegal blockade on the Palestinians.
“To be honest, I feel very motivated. There are times I feel afraid and nervous but I’m fully prepared for anything. I leave everything in the hands of God,” he told The Star yesterday.
The first wave of the GSF has a total of 150 participants, 92 of whom are on the Conscience.
“We come in solidarity with the global community to send a strong message to those who are colluding with the Zionist regime, trading with them, and providing weapons to continue the genocide of the Palestinians,” he said.
Speaking about his journey so far, Syafik said they have been facing giant waves and a number of participants are seasick.
“Conscience is the biggest vessel in this second wave of the Global Sumud Flotilla sailing to Gaza.
Ready to face the challenge: Astro Awani reporter Syafik (second from left) greeting well-wishers alongside medical and media personnel on board the vessel Conscience, currently en route to Gaza as part of the second wave of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
“We have to reduce our speed to ensure that other boats can keep up with the ship and we stay synchronised. We estimate that in four days, we will reach Gaza but it all depends on the weather and speed.
“In total, there are 11 vessels, all departed from two different ports in Italy-Sicily and Otranto.
“My role here is to spread awareness to the people on what is happening and our next move.
“I try to reach out to as many people as possible, especially on social media, because more engagement means more attention for this mission, which is to stop the starvation in Gaza.
“We may not be bringing much assistance but a continuous move such as this will pressure the occupiers.
“It is also a message to the leaders out there that if we keep at this, we will reach our main goal,” said Syafik.
He added that he feels “a little pressured” being the only journalist from Malaysia.
“I always have to be on my toes to inform Malaysians about our situation, and the narrative that must be understood by the masses.
“I’m very happy that Malaysia is always highly anticipated (by the international community regarding the issue of Gaza), especially our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is outspoken on the matter.
“I know that this is a golden opportunity to share my per- spective as a Malaysian journalist with the community out there.
“When I reach Gaza by the grace of God, I want to record the cases of the Palestinians under the brutality of the regime and their courage to stay strong.
“All the killings of the children, women, medical and media personnel – I want to tell their stories.
“We tend to complain about what little we have, but we have to see the strength of the Palestinians despite not having anything to look forward to, due to the blockades,” said Syafik.
The first wave of the GSF was intercepted by Israel on Oct 2. A total of 23 Malaysians were detained and transported to Turkiye for release.
