KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia Airports has committed to donating RM5 million in support of the people of Palestine, who are currently enduring military actions by Israeli forces.
In a statement, Malaysia Airports said this contribution will be directed to the Humanitarian Trust Fund for the People of Palestine, in a show of solidarity with the Palestinian people, especially in the aftermath of recent unrest in Gaza.
Aside from the RM5 million pledge, Malaysia Airports is engaging its subsidiary Malaysia Airports (Niaga) Sdn Bhd (Eraman) and its partners, as well as commercial tenants operating at its airports, to contribute to the fund.
In addition, an internal donation campaign will be held to encourage Malaysia Airports employees to make personal contributions, which the company has pledged to match up to a total of RM1 million.
Malaysia Airports chairman Tan Sri Zainun Ali said: “As the nation’s main airport operator, we are in a position to lead our business partners in the airport community to make an impact.
“We are proud to have the support of our subsidiary Malaysia Airports (Niaga) Sdn Bhd (Eraman), who has stepped up to pledge RM100,000 towards this cause.
“Our sincere thanks also go out to our commercial partners, as well as our own employees, who will be joining us in this effort to send a message of compassion and much needed aid to the people of Palestine in their time of need.”
When tabling the Malaysia Madani Budget 2024 in the Dewan Rakyat on Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government will provide assistance for the Palestinians, including providing funds of RM10 million for the purpose.
This was on top of the RM1 million initial fund announced by Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir on Thursday.
Anwar also said he would ensure that all government investment companies, government linked companies and private companies raise at least RM100 million due to the worsening situation in the Gaza Strip.
The recent round of violence in Palestine, which involved Hamas – the governing power in Gaza – and the Israeli government, have led to thousands of deaths on both sides since October 7. – October 15, 2023