Malaysia advocates for international principles, urges recognition of Palestinian rights amid ongoing crisis.
In a recent statement, Malaysia expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Muhammad Bin Salman, for spearheading the collaboration between ASEAN and Gulf countries. This initiative follows Saudi Arabia’s previous efforts at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) level, addressing the Palestinian issue. The conference highlighted the dire situation in Palestine, especially in the Gaza Peninsula, where continuous attacks endanger the lives and property of Palestinians, exacerbated by restricted access to basic necessities. Malaysia strongly condemned the international community’s hypocrisy regarding human rights violations and genocide in Palestine, emphasizing the need to uphold international principles and laws.
Malaysia reiterated the importance of restoring Palestinian rights, recognizing their citizenship, and establishing pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital. The country urged the immediate establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor to facilitate the entry of essential supplies, including food and medical aid. Addressing the challenges in the ASEAN-GCC relationship, Malaysia emphasized the necessity of resolving geopolitical issues to enhance economic ties between the two regions. The statement concluded with a proposal for the ASEAN-GCC Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aiming to create the first free trade relationship combining ASEAN and Gulf countries.
