Malaysia Always Been Part Of International Humanitarian Community

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MP SPEAKS | Many people questioned Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s priorities for his intention to help rebuild Gaza.
“Prioritise Malaysia first,” they said.
First, let us go back to our history.
Malaysia, although a small country, has always contributed to international rebuilding efforts. For example, in Bosnia Herzegovina, East Timor and Aceh after the 2004 tsunami.
Malaysia also built a hospital for refugees in Cox Bazar, Bangladesh.
Malaysia has always been part of the international humanitarian community. We help each other. When we needed help, other countries came to help us too.
When the war in Gaza is over, Malaysia should and must be part of the international rebuilding effort.
There will be many nations such as Japan and China, and European and Arab countries participating in this process. The prime minister is making the right decision for Malaysia to show leadership in this rebuilding effort. This will elevate Malaysia’s international standing.
Secondly, when Malaysia was poor and developing, we received help from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica), and the World Bank (US), and projects from China’s One Belt One Road initiatives (Obor).
Today, Malaysia is no longer a backward poor country. In a few years, we are on track to achieve a high-income nation. Malaysia aspires to become a middle-power nation.
World development
Malaysia must now contribute to the development of the world. Although we will not be able to set up Usaid with a US$50 billion annual budget or Jica or Obor, to help rebuild a small part of Gaza is within our capabilities.
After all, all major powers in the world will pour in their money to rebuild Gaza. Gaza will be the biggest international rebuilding effort.
Thirdly, a peaceful and stable Gaza is good for Malaysia in the long term. The Middle East has been called the powder keg of the world. If it is unstable, it will threaten the oil price and shipping routes.
Malaysia cannot save the whole world, but we can do a small part to help in Gaza. After all, we are part of this human race. Humanity is what defines us as a nation.
When a superpower like the US retreats from international duties, Anwar shows rare leadership and commitment to international collaboration. The world needs leadership. We should support his efforts. - Mkini
SIM TZE TZIN is Bayan Baru MP.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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