KOTA KINABALU: Carrying the spirit of humanity and resilience, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) held a gathering on Tuesday (Oct 28) to express solidarity with the Palestinian struggle, uniting more than 500 staff, students, and alumni under one cause.
The event, called Free Palestine Alumni UMS, took place at the university’s Chancellor Hall and featured five UMS alumni who joined the Global Humanitarian Mission Sumud Flotilla (GSF), namely Heliza Helmi, Sul Aidil, Johan Muhammad, Khairul Yunus, and Nadir Al Nuri.
UMS vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor said the presence of the five alumni was not only to enliven the event but also symbolised courage, sincerity, and sacrifice.
“They were willing to leave their families and face security and emotional risks to defend the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people.
“They are the pride of UMS and their spirit reflects the soul of this university, which is knowledgeable, noble-hearted, and compassionate,” he said in his speech.
He added that the Sumud spirit, which means resilience, perseverance, and steadfastness in the face of adversity for truth and humanity, should inspire all members of the university community.
Kasim also urged Malaysians to continue praying for peace to flourish in Palestine.
“Hopefully, when peace comes, Palestinian students will come to UMS not as war refugees but as ambassadors of knowledge, peace, and humanity.
“UMS aims to remain not only an academic institution of excellence but also one with a great heart for humanity, the Brain of Borneo with a Heart for Humanity,” he said.
The gathering also featured a poetry recital by Dr Mashor Awang Long, a special Palestine montage, a humanitarian song performance by Heliza, and an experience sharing session by the GSF alumni.
The event concluded with prayers and the Qunut Nazilah recitation, accompanied by chants of Takbir and Free Palestine as a symbol of solidarity with the people of Gaza.
