KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he has received threats, warnings and criticism from those supporting the Israeli regime amid the Zionist state’s escalating violence in Gaza.
However, he made it abundantly clear that the cause of the Palestinian people would be a main agenda for as long as he was prime minister, and with the unwavering support of the Malaysian people.
In a fiery speech at the Malaysia Stands with Palestine gathering held at the Axiata Arena, where more than 20,000 attendees came together, Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to upholding its sovereignty and fighting for the rights and freedom of the Palestinian people.
“I have received many warnings and threats, but I told them, ‘You’ve chosen the wrong person’,” he said.
“Malaysia, a free and independent nation, will persist in its quest for justice and freedom for the Palestinian people.”
Earlier in the day, the stadium in Bukit Jalil was flooded by attendees as Malaysians from diverse backgrounds, all dressed in white attire, joined the rally.
The attendees stood in solidarity with the suffering Palestinian population, which has faced a barrage of Israeli attacks in recent weeks.
Anwar issued a stern reminder to those who would threaten Malaysia, emphasising the country’s sovereign rights and independence.
“I faced criticism and attacks from parties in the United States and Europe, but as long as I have the mandate of the people, I will not yield to threats,” he said.
“We stand for what is just, and we understand the importance of freedom. Malaysia will not be intimidated, we have the right to express our views.”
With a sombre outlook on the situation in Gaza, Anwar acknowledged the bleak future that may lie ahead, given the possibility of continued Israeli bombardment of the enclave’s civilian population.
However, he maintained his faith in divine intervention and called for acceptance of the grim reality, which he attributed to the arrogance and tyranny of Israel, bolstered by its international allies.
He commended the spirit of unity among Malaysians of various ethnic backgrounds who came together to support the Palestinian cause and condemn the oppressive actions of the Israeli regime.
“Malaysians have demonstrated greatness by valiantly standing up for the Palestinian people.
“Though geographically distant from the Arab and Palestinian worlds, every incident touches our collective conscience. We understand the values of humanity, compassion and justice in the face of Israeli cruelty.” – October 24, 2023