'Match Of Hope' A Symbol Of Solidarity For Mothers And Children In Gaza - Syed Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- The charity match ‘Match of Hope: Solidarity for Mothers & Children in Gaza’ held at Merdeka Stadium tonight was more than just a friendly game since it served as a symbol of Malaysian unity, with nearly 50 percent of the RM100,000 target for the Gaza Baby Bag Fund Project successfully raised so far.

Chairman of the Malaysian Parliamentary Caucus and Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh, said that the inaugural programme was planned within two weeks and it successfully brought together Members of Parliament and national football legends, including Datuk Dollah Salleh.

“This is a symbol of hope. We are here at the Merdeka Stadium, the landmark of our nation’s independence. This combination is vital to deliver a message of solidarity in a creative way that resonates with the community,” he told BERNAMA.

He also announced a personal contribution of RM5,000 and noted that fundraising efforts will continue until the end of March, expressing confidence that the target will be met through the ongoing support of the people.

Meanwhile, MyCARE Chairman Prof. Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Kamal Nasharuddin Mustapha said the funds would be used to provide hygiene kits and basic necessities to the affected population facing critical conditions due to the prolonged conflict.

“We have set a target of RM100,000. In the context of Gaza, that amount may seem small, but it is still meaningful. MyCARE will channel the aid through our networks there,” he said.

According to him, since October 7, 2023, MyCARE has channeled approximately RM30 million in aid to Gaza, benefiting nearly 700,000 recipients.

Dr. Kamal added that his organisation had also launched the “MyRamadan” campaign with a collection target of RM4 million for this year’s Ramadan, compared to the RM3.2 million raised last year, stating that these funds would be distributed not only to Gaza but also to other recipients in need.

In the same vein, Ministry of Communications Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah said that organising such events through sports platforms can ignite the spirit of solidarity more inclusively across race, religion, and political affiliations.

“The Ministry always supports any effort involving unity and understanding between races and religions that is non-partisan.

“Sports transcends everything. Thus, with this location at Stadium Merdeka, it can evoke an even stronger spirit. Insha-Allah (God willing), that spirit will lead to independence for Palestine,” he said.

-- BERNAMA