KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to draw lessons from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the prolonged suffering of the Palestinians in Gaza by strengthening unity and solidarity at home.
He said amid increasingly uncertain global geopolitics, Malaysia must remain united regardless of political, racial or religious differences in order to uphold the rule of law and safeguard national interests.
"This is not merely about siding with any major power, but about defending principles, justice and sovereignty.
"In such difficult times, a small country like Malaysia must stand firm through the strength of its people's unity," he said in his address at Menara Felda here on Thursday (March 5).
Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
Anwar said no other country had endured decades of brutality, land seizure and destruction, including the killing of children and the devastation of hospitals and schools, like the Palestinian people for more than 70 years.
"That is why, during this month of Ramadan, we should reflect on the plight of the ummah and why we must strengthen unity and purify ourselves and our nation.
"We have the capacity to safeguard our institutions, our Felda settlements, hospitals and schools, without facing the daily destruction seen there. Use this blessing wisely," he said.
Last Saturday, Israel and the United States launched airstrikes on several targets in Iran.
Tehran later responded by targeting US military bases and logistics facilities in several Arab countries, prompting widespread airspace restrictions across the region. - Bernama
