Don't Question Local Activists’ Involvement In Gaza Aid Efforts - PM

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties not to question the involvement of local activists in humanitarian missions to assist the people of Palestine, nor the the visit of United States President Donald Trump in conjunction with the ASEAN Summit at the end of this month.

He said that as the international community, including Egypt, Qatar and Hamas, is focusing on finding a peaceful resolution, Malaysians should likewise pray for the success of these efforts instead of fuelling unhealthy political polemics.

“The entire world, including Egypt, Qatar and Hamas, is focused on ensuring the success of the peace process. So we in Malaysia should do the same and pray for its success.

“Do not, for instance, oppose the visit (by Trump), because we are appealing to all countries, including Trump himself, to ensure that this agreement is signed and implemented,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers at Surau Fathurrahman PPAM Melinjau in Precinct 11 here today.

Anwar added that if Hamas itself is showing commitment towards peace, it would be inappropriate for any quarters in the country to create division.

“So, if even Hamas wants peace, why should we be the ones provoking conflict?

“People are being killed, their homeland occupied, and innocent children and women continue to be murdered…so we must first put an end to these atrocities,” he said.

Anwar also expressed his appreciation to Malaysian volunteers taking part in the humanitarian flotilla mission to Gaza, describing their courage as a great act of sacrifice.

“Not everyone is willing to risk their lives to help the people of Gaza. To those who do, we extend our gratitude and prayers. This is the spirit that should be upheld among Muslims and all Malaysians,” he said.

On the nine Malaysians who joined the humanitarian mission and were detained in Israel on Oct 8, Anwar said arrangements for their return are being coordinated with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

“We are praying, God willing, that they will arrive safely in Istanbul. The (Turkish representative) has promised to call at 3.30 pm today, so I will announce further developments during the (tabling of) Budget 2026,” he said.

Earlier, Anwar joined nearly 500 worshippers in prayers led by Ustaz Khairul Anuar Mohd Saruwan.

The Prime Minister also listened to a sermon titled 'Lelaki Qawwam Bukan Sekadar Nama'.

-- BERNAMA