KUALA LUMPUR: Thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life have begun flocking to the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil to show their support for the Palestine solidarity rally today (Aug 4).
The venue started filling up at 4.30 pm, although entry to the stadium was only permitted from 6.00pm.
Attendees were spotted wearing white clothing to express their solidarity with Palestinians affected by attacks from the Israeli regime.
Yesterday, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the rally, is expected to be attended by 20,000 people.
Meanwhile, City Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said 65 policemen of different ranks are deployed to assist in traffic control in the area.
"Despite having no road closures, we advise the public to follow the instructions of the policemen on duty.
"Please don't park your cars on the road shoulders to avoid congestion," he said when contacted.
Attendees were also seen flying the Jalur Gemilang and the Palestine flag, besides the continuous chanting of "Long live Palestine" and "Free Palestine".
The event will feature speeches on the history and development of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict by leaders of non-governmental organisations.
The programme will be followed by mass Maghrib prayers, then a series of speeches by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The highlight of the event would be a special speech delivered by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The recent clashes in Palestine involving Hamas, the ruling authority in Gaza, and the Israeli regime have resulted in the loss of thousands of lives on both sides since Oct 7.