Thousands of Malaysians from different races gathered at Dataran Merdeka on Sunday (Oct 22) in a peaceful rally to show their support for the Palestinian people and call for an end to the armed strikes by Israeli forces. The rally, themed “Freedom for Palestine,” was organized by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Viva Palestina Malaysia (VPM) and Humanitarian Care Malaysia (MyCare). The supporters included Palestinians living in Malaysia and other foreigners who arrived as early as 9am.
During the rally, participants waved Palestinian flags, displayed anti-war banners, and chanted slogans. Activists from Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist communities, as well as NGOs, delivered speeches condemning the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
Former Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar stated that Malaysians cannot remain silent about the genocide and war crimes committed by Israeli forces, which the US, UK, and Europe are complicit in. She emphasized that 50% of Gaza’s population is made up of children, and Israel’s transgressions of international humanitarian law have destroyed the right to self-defense. She called for the delegitimization and defunding of Israel, asserting that the continuation of this genocide will strengthen extremist forces worldwide.
Nurul highlighted that the conflict affects not only Muslims but also Palestinian churches, mosques, and other places of worship, including United Nations (UN) safe areas, which have been attacked and bombed by Israel. She urged Malaysia and the rest of the world to voice their opposition against Israeli crimes.
Viva Palestine Malaysia (VPM) chairman, Datuk Dr. Musa Mohd Nordin expressed pride in the high turnout of Malaysians at the rally, showing their support for the oppressed people of Palestine. He called on attendees to continue their support at home and within their circles, aiming to prevent the repetition of this genocide that has already claimed the lives of about 5,000 people, including 40% children who are innocent civilians.
Dr. Hafidzi Mohd Noor, honorary advisor of MyCare, stated that the ongoing strike on Palestine is the worst the country has experienced compared to past attacks by Israel. An unidentified Palestinian woman, who has been living in Malaysia for almost ten years, also shared her personal experience and explained how her family came to Malaysia to escape the atrocities of Israeli forces. She expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s support towards Palestinians.
Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil attended the rally, and police personnel on duty ensured the smooth and peaceful conduct of the event. Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Noor Dellhan Yahaya confirmed that the rally organizers followed the rules and regulations specified in the Peaceful Assembly Act. He reported no untoward incidents during the rally, which ended as scheduled at 1pm.
