Kuala Lumpur: ASEAN has taken a firm position in supporting a long-lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, with Malaysia pledging to give its utmost support to the territory’s reconstruction efforts, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today. He said that Malaysia as the chair of the regional grouping this year is committed to ensuring adequate support is given to the reconstruction effort in Gaza.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Foreign Minister, Datuk Mohamad Hassan, last month had an engagement with all ASEAN foreign ministers where they reiterated that position. Anwar stated that he would continue the engagement with all the leaders to provide adequate support to Japan’s initiative, co-chaired with Malaysia, for the immediate reconstruction of Gaza, during a joint media conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Anwar emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts in Gaza and other parts of Palestine. He highlighted Turkiye’s leadership in sending extensive humanitarian aid, stating that it was unmatched by any other country. The Prime Minister affirmed Malaysia’s dedication to utilising facilities in Turkiye, Qatar, and Egypt to aid Gazans.

Additionally, Anwar announced Malaysia’s support for Japan’s initiative to establish a fund specifically for Gaza’s reconstruction. Last month, he mentioned that Malaysia plans to build a school, hospital, and mosque as part of its reconstruction efforts, in collaboration with the people and private sector.

Anwar also addressed regional issues, highlighting Malaysia’s ongoing efforts with other ASEAN members in addressing the crisis in Myanmar and the plight of the Rohingya. He shared his concerns with Erdogan about the Rohingya situation and developments in Myanmar.

Meanwhile, Erdogan highlighted the collaboration between Turkiye and Malaysia on international issues, particularly in addressing the Palestinian plight. He emphasized Ankara’s commitment to supporting Palestinians and acknowledged Malaysia’s strong stance on Palestinian issues. Erdogan reaffirmed his support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, calling for an end to Israel’s occupation and responsibility for inflicted damage.