SEPANG: Returning Global Sumud Flotilla volunteers were welcomed with rousing cheers at KLIA upon their return, with some of the loudest received by Heliza Helmi, her sister Nur Hazwani Afiqah and artist Zizi Kirana.
They were among 23 activists detained by Israeli forces while en route to deliver aid to Gaza on Oct 2.
At KLIA Terminal 1 last night, singer Heliza waved and smiled as chants of “Free, free Palestine” echoed through the terminal.
The group’s flight landed at about 10pm, and the crowd erupted as the activists emerged at around 11pm.
They then prostrated on the floor before the cheering crowd to thank God for their safe return.
A touching moment came when actor Nadzmi Adhwa embraced his wife, actress Ardell Aryana, with tears in his eyes.
Their reunion drew applause and smiles, and Ardell was later seen hugging and kissing their child.
At a media conference, activist and content creator Farah Lee recounted harrowing moments during their detention in Israel.
Ardell thanked Malaysians for their prayers and support throughout the ordeal.
Hundreds of supporters gathered from as early as 8pm, waving Palestinian flags and holding placards calling for peace and freedom.
Many wore the colours of the Palestinian flag and donned keffiyehs in solidarity.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, who received the group, said Malaysia’s diplomacy and strong ties with friendly nations was key to securing their release.
He expressed gratitude to all who helped ensure the safe return of the 23 Malaysians detained by Israel.
“In light of our friends’ safe return to our homeland tonight, we extend heartfelt thanks to all who worked tirelessly,” he said.
He thanked the Prime Minister’s Office, the Turkish government and counterparts in Egypt and Jordan.
Mohamad said the Turkish government played a significant role in facilitating negotiations with Israeli authorities.
This enabled the release of Malaysians who were “unlawfully detained.”
He also thanked key officials involved in coordination, including Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby, the minister’s political secretary, and senior Wisma Putra officers.
“Alhamdulillah, our sons and daughters have safely returned home,” he said.
“This is a moment of gratitude for all Malaysians,” he added.
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Heliza Helmi, Global Sumud Flotilla, KLIA Welcome, Mohamad Hasan, Gaza Aid Mission, Malaysian Activists
