KUALA LUMPUR: An estimated 30,000 Malaysians are set to participate in a massive rally, demonstrating solidarity with Palestine scheduled to occur near the United States Embassy on Jan 13.
Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) Movement in Malaysia president Professor Dr Nazari Ismail said the initiative, named "Global Day Action", aims to show support for the Palestinian people's struggle and advocate for an immediate halt to the conflict in Gaza.
Similar demonstrations are anticipated to take place simultaneously in various cities worldwide on the same day, including London and Washington.
"The date for this demonstration has been chosen by international organisations, and here in Malaysia, we respond to the call to protest against the injustices of the Zionist regime.
"Given Malaysia's Eastern location, our nation will be among the first to protest, starting in Kuala Lumpur. So far, BDS has successfully gathered the participation of 30 non-governmental organisations (NGO)," he said during a press conference today.
Dr Nazari emphasised that this demonstration would not involve marching, as seen in previous events. Instead, participants will gather near the United States embassy, with several prominent leaders expected to join them.
"For nearly 90 days, the attacks by the Zionist regime have resulted in nearly 24,000 casualties, including numerous children and women. This undeniable crime necessitates our action.
"Our plan is to gather as many people as possible near the embassy and have community leaders and NGO figures deliver lectures condemning the atrocities in Gaza," he said.
Meanwhile, former Batu Member of Parliament, Tian Chua, remarked that the demonstration represents a sustained public pressure tactic amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
"Such periodic demonstrations are crucial for maintaining continuous pressure on the global community to comprehend the gravity of the situation. Through such gatherings, we can address the urgency of this issue.
"These demonstrations are essential and well-received, given the widespread support for Palestine from the Prime Minister to the police. We will persist, hoping for a substantial turnout. My call is for the Malaysian people to make their stance heard.
"While the Prime Minister has spoken out, a demonstration serves as a valuable mechanism, even if it takes years to hold those accountable. The message is clear: those who act against humanity must face the consequences. I hope more countries adopt a similar stance," he said.
Commenting on the move by McDonald's Malaysia to sue BDS for allegedly defaming the company, Dr Nazari said that he leaves the matter to the court.
"BDS adheres firmly to the position of rejecting any company associated with Israel, directly or indirectly, and it focuses on showing solidarity with Palestine.
"Regarding the lawsuit issue, we only leave it to the court to make a decision," he said.
Previously, Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd, the licensee of McDonald's in Malaysia, has demanded pro-Palestinian group Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) Malaysia to issue an apology over alleged defamatory statements.
The company had also demanded BDS to pay RM6 million in special damages.