From Gaza To South China Sea: Malaysians Laud PM Anwar's Bold ASEAN Diplomacy

Barnama

a day ago

By Shaidathul Suhana Ros and Norazurra Aziz
KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's Chairmanship of ASEAN this year has been hailed as a diplomatic success, marked by strong joint statements reflecting unity among member states, especially in addressing pressing global humanitarian and regional security issues.
Even the general Malaysian public praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's bold leadership, particularly on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His firm stance, they noted, garnered support from ASEAN leaders, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China, culminating in a unified statement condemning violence against civilians.
Pensioner Minati Hamir, 70, said she fully supports the government's unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of Palestinians who have long suffered under prolonged conflict.
'As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia has a powerful platform to push for more effective regional diplomacy and global awareness campaigns.
'Support for Gaza must extend beyond Muslim nations. This is a humanitarian crisis that demands action and solidarity from all nations that uphold justice, regardless of religion or ethnicity,' she told Bernama when contacted.
Minati, who is also a former school principal, also called on the government to broaden awareness campaigns, particularly among the younger generation, so the atrocities and suffering in Gaza are never forgotten.
Sharing her sentiments, Anni Holilah Syahuddin, 23, a public university student, expressed hope that the recent summit resolutions would lead to peace in Gaza.
'The bloodshed feels endless. I hope their decades-long suffering will finally end with liberation from Israeli occupation,' she said.