Kuala Lumpur: Criticism from certain quarters of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s efforts to support the reconstruction of mosques and schools in Gaza is intellectually weak and reflects a troubling moral ignorance. Political secretary to the Prime Minister, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, emphasized that Malaysia cannot and would not be a mere spectator in history, as the country had long stood against all forms of tyranny and oppression. He stated that Malaysia would not cease its humanitarian efforts simply because a handful of individuals perceive it as ‘too distant’ to warrant concern.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Kamil questioned whether Malaysia should only speak out and fight for justice if it happens within its national borders. He drew comparisons to Malaysia’s past condemnations of apartheid in South Africa and its humanitarian aid efforts in Bosnia during the Srebrenica massacre. He highlighted Malaysia’s proactive stance during these international crises, which included sending peacekeeping forces and military aid to Bosnia.

Muhammad Kamil further questioned why Malaysia should now ‘mind its own business’ and ignore the call for justice for the Palestinian people. He referenced the late Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa and anti-apartheid activist, who advocated for the Palestinian cause, emphasizing that justice knows no borders. He argued that it is unreasonable for Malaysians to oppose the Prime Minister’s efforts on these grounds.

He also challenged the notion that concern for Palestine means neglecting domestic welfare, questioning if compassion is limited only to fellow citizens. Muhammad Kamil’s remarks come in response to media reports on Thursday, where former Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, suggested that the government should prioritize addressing domestic issues before committing to the reconstruction of Gaza.