KUCHING: More than 2,500 people came together for the Sarawak Solidarity Gathering with Palestine to voice their support for the Palestinian people.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah stated that the event was not a religious assembly but rather organised to demonstrate the solidarity of the people in the state.
“This solidarity is crucial because the people in Palestine are facing a tremendous tragedy, being persecuted, bombed and mass-murdered.
“In just 20 days, over 7,000 Palestinian people in Gaza, mostly children and civilians were mercilessly killed under the Zionist regime,” he said.
He made these remarks after attending the Sarawak Solidarity Gathering with Palestine at Celebration Square of Sarawak Sports Complex, Petra Jaya here Saturday (Oct 28).
He added that those killed in Palestine are not only Muslims but also Christians.
“Although Sarawak is a small state and Malaysia is not densely populated, we want to show our solidarity with Palestine.
“The purpose is to uplift their spirits. Despite the oppression by Israel, we want them to know that the land of Malaysia, the land of Sarawak, stands with them, providing strength to continue living and fighting against these atrocities,” he stressed.
Furthermore, he asserted that the event was a successful and peaceful effort.
“Therefore, I express gratitude to the Royal Malaysian Police and the Sarawak Sports Corporation for granting the permit for this peaceful assembly.
“Despite the scorching weather, held in an open area without air conditioning, the community came out to show their support and solidarity with the people of Palestine,” he said.
The assembly was not only attended by the Malay and Muslim community, but also by members of other religions to show support and solidarity with this humanitarian issue.
The area was flooded with people donning black and white attire, proudly displaying the flags of Malaysia, Sarawak, and Palestine. Some also carried banners with special messages.
