KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 (Bernama) -- Thousands of Malaysians gathered at the United States (US) Embassy here today in the ‘Himpunan Sumud Flotilla’ rally, where a memorandum outlining three key demands on Palestine was submitted as a protest against the blockade of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) mission.
Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim said the memorandum called for the immediate release of all GSF volunteers without action against them.
“Secondly, we urge the US to use its influence over Israel to allow ships carrying food, medicine and humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.
“And thirdly, we demand that the US President ensure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not hijack the peace process currently underway,” he told reporters after the submission.
However, embassy officials declined to send a representative to receive the memorandum, citing security reasons, but assured that it would be collected later.
Commenting on the strong turnout, Muhammad Kamil said the presence of more than 5,000 participants reflected the solidarity and awakening of Malaysians towards the Palestinian struggle, regardless of political or religious background.
“Although this gathering was called at very short notice, thousands came to the streets… This is the manifestation of Malaysians who love peace and care about developments in Gaza,” he said.
Muhammad Kamil, who is also political secretary to the Prime Minister, stressed that the Palestinian issue transcends partisan politics.
“In the matter of Gaza, every one of us must put aside political differences, race or religion, because this is about justice and humanity.
“On that basis, all parties must unite in supporting every effort, including those undertaken by the Malaysian government,” he added.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is also playing a crucial role through engagements with world leaders to ensure the safety of volunteers involved in the mission.
The rally is expected to continue tomorrow after Friday prayers at the same location, with a larger crowd anticipated.
Checks by Bernama found people from all walks of life began gathering from 3 pm before marching towards the US Embassy at about 4 pm.
Chants of ‘Allahuakbar’ and ‘Down with Israel’ echoed during the Himpunan Sumud Flotilla #Stand4Sumud rally on Jalan Tun Razak as a show of protest against Israel’s interception of the GSF mission.
Police personnel were present near the embassy to maintain order.
Media reports said the GSF mission involves volunteers from multiple countries, including Malaysia, sailing to Gaza with essential supplies for Palestinians affected by continuous Israeli assaults.
As of 3.39 pm today, 15 Malaysian volunteers on board the flotilla were reported to have been unlawfully detained by Israeli forces after entering the red zone waters off Gaza.
Meanwhile, in PERAK, thousands gathered at the compound of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu station in Ipoh to show solidarity and condemn the actions of the Israeli regime.
They began filling the area at 9 pm, dressed in black with Palestinian-flag scarves and carrying placards.
Despite the rain, their spirit remained high as they voiced support for the GSF activists and denounced the Zionist regime.
Tomorrow, after Friday prayers, a special solat hajat will also be held at Sultan Abdul Aziz II Mosque to pray for the well-being of all GSF participants, including Malaysians, who have been detained by the Israeli military.
-- BERNAMA
