Malaysia takes key role in rebuilding Gaza, say experts

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's plan to spearhead Gaza's reconstruction, including the construction of a school, hospital, and mosque, is seen as a proactive move to ensure the country plays a key role in the long-term rebuilding process, experts said.

Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said that although Gaza's reconstruction falls under Phase 3 of the ceasefire plan, the initiative taken by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Japan marks an important step in preparing for the future.

"This is clearly a proactive move by Prime Minister Anwar, especially following Japan's invitation for Malaysia to co-chair the reconstruction effort.

"This is not just about rebuilding Gaza but also about supporting Palestine as a sovereign state," he told the New Straits Times.

He said Malaysia's involvement, alongside Japan, is significant, given that Western nations, such as the G7, have primarily focused on the reconstruction of Ukraine, with little mention of Gaza.

"By acting now, Malaysia and Japan are taking concrete steps, even though the actual reconstruction of Gaza will take years to materialise.

"It's important that something is initiated now, even if the full effort will only come in Phase 3 of the ceasefire plan," he added.

Azmi said the collaboration could help ensure Gaza's reconstruction is realised, further strengthening Malaysia's position in East Asian cooperative efforts for Palestine's long-term development.

Meanwhile, Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Nayan, a security and political analyst at the Centre for Media and Information Warfare Studies, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), said the decision reinforces Malaysia's role as a middle power in Asean, especially as the country currently holds the chairmanship.

He said the initiative reflects Malaysia's dedication to humanitarian diplomacy and global peace efforts.

"This is a significant move and a demonstration of Malaysia's leadership in supporting Gaza's recovery, ensuring it is rebuilt as a stable and recognised entity," he said.

He said Malaysia's proactive stance aligns with the principles of peace and humanitarian diplomacy, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.

"In the diplomatic sphere, middle powers have the capacity to champion humanitarian causes, particularly in response to the hardships and brutality faced by Gaza's citizens.

"Malaysia's efforts should be recognised as a vital contribution to global humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives."

Nirwandy emphasised the importance of maintaining international cooperation, urging middle-power nations and global stakeholders to unite in diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives.

"This collective effort is crucial in ensuring that Gaza is not only rebuilt physically but also empowered politically and diplomatically, ultimately securing recognition as a sovereign state by the United Nations," he said.

He also called on Malaysians to support the prime minister's vision, highlighting the need for public engagement in advocating for Gaza's recognition.

"The public must rally behind the government's efforts, reinforcing Malaysia's stance on humanitarian principles and sovereignty rights," he said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysia will lead Gaza's reconstruction by building a school, a hospital, and a mosque as part of its commitment to Palestinian redevelopment.

Anwar said the initiative would be carried out with public support and collaboration from the private sector.

"Insya-Allah, we will begin with a school, a hospital, and a mosque as part of our contribution and the sacrifices of the people," he said.

He also said Malaysia and Japan will set up a fund under the East Asia Initiative to support the reconstruction of Gaza and Palestine following the recently agreed ceasefire.

Anwar said the initiative follows Malaysia's engagement with the Japanese government on the matter.

"Alhamdulillah, through the efforts of the government and the foreign minister, we have secured confirmation to expedite the redevelopment of Gaza and Palestine.

"This will be a joint effort between the Malaysian and Japanese governments, with plans to establish a dedicated fund under the East Asia Initiative," he was reported as saying.

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