Anwar Reminds NGOs To Prioritise Aid To Gaza, Not Large Presence Of Volunteers

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reminded non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to pay attention to preparing humanitarian aid from Malaysia and not rush into sending loads of volunteers to Gaza.

He said this is vital to ensuring aid initiatives run smoothly without overwhelming the situation on the ground, in addition to respecting the capabilities of the local population, who want to play a role in the recovery process.

The current situation in Gaza, he said, showed that the local workforce is sufficient and they themselves want to be actively involved in the implementation of humanitarian missions.

"So, I have reminded the NGOs to assist in terms of preparations here and not to make the conditions worse by sending too many people there.

"Many have registered to go, already thousands of them. But the Gaza people themselves have said not to send too many people. They have the manpower, just that there is no work. So, they want to work. We can assist from here. If tomorrow they need us, we can discuss again,” he told the media after performing Friday prayers at Surau Jannatul Firdaus, Seruling Malaysian Civil Servants’ Housing Project (PPAM), Precinct 5, here today.

Anwar said this when commenting on the possibility of the Rafah border in Egypt opening soon to allow the movement and delivery of humanitarian aid between Egypt and Gaza.

According to him, following a meeting with representatives from NGOs, such as Ehsan Relief Malaysia and Mercy Malaysia, and several others, it was found that the primary needs of the people of Gaza are medicine, food and essential items, and not the influx of volunteers.

"They do not need our presence in large numbers. As for doctors or engineers, they already have sufficient manpower. What they need are basic facilities, and if these can be purchased there, it is cheaper than buying them here,” he said.

He said that, as for medical needs, companies able to supply them need to be identified.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister also confirmed that the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, is expected to contact him tomorrow to share updates on the opening of the Rafah border crossing.

Anwar said he will then convey some additional views so that when the Rafah border is opened, humanitarian aid can be delivered in accordance with the stipulated regulations.  

-- BERNAMA