Malaysia’s Geopolitical Position Key To Gaza Reconstruction - IKIM
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 31 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement of Malaysia's commitment to aiding Gaza’s reconstruction is highly significant, given the country’s role as a progressive Islamic nation and its position as the current Chair of ASEAN.
Director-general of the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil said in the geopolitical landscape, Malaysia holds a strategic position to foster close cooperation with member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and other economically strong West Asian nations.
“Through this network, Gaza’s reconstruction efforts can be carried out in a more systematic and sustainable manner.
“At the ASEAN level, Malaysia can also mobilise a more comprehensive regional initiative to strengthen the role of neighbouring countries in supporting the stability and reconstruction of Palestine," he said, in a statement, today.
He added that the Prime Minister’s announcement last Wednesday, outlining Malaysia’s plans to mobilise efforts to construct schools, hospitals, and mosques in Gaza, reflects the nation’s deep concern for the well-being of the Palestinian people.
Mohamed Azam said that the announcement also underscored Malaysia’s leadership in strengthening international humanitarian solidarity, and upholding its moral responsibility to assist communities affected by conflict.
He welcomed the establishment of the Special Inter-Agency Coordination Committee, overseen by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the Malaysian Waqf Foundation, to ensure that Gaza’s reconstruction efforts are carried out effectively, and in a structured and sustainable manner.
“In this regard, IKIM will provide cooperation at the optimum level to ensure the success of the targeted goals,” he said.
At the domestic level, Mohamed Azam emphasised that the support and participation of various segments of society are crucial to the success of the Gaza reconstruction mission.
He said that government-linked companies (GLCs) such as Petronas, Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) have the potential to play a significant role by providing financial resources, technical expertise, and strategic networks essential for the initiative’s effectiveness.
Additionally, he stressed the need to strengthen the involvement of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to enhance logistical support and mobilise volunteer networks, ensuring the efficient delivery of aid.
“IKIM remains committed to supporting and strengthening efforts that contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza, in line with the principles of social justice, universal humanity, and collective responsibility in building a more peaceful and prosperous global society,” said Mohamed Azam.
-- BERNAMA
