GEORGE TOWN: Penang today handed over the Palestinian humanitarian aid donation amounting to RM1.22 million, with the aim of providing assistance to the people of Palestine, particularly those in Gaza, who are being oppressed by the Israeli Zionist regime.
Deputy Chief Minister 1 Datuk Mohamad Abdul Hamid presented the aid to the Palestinian Cultural Organisation Malaysia (PCOM) chairman Badereddin Seyam.
Mohamad, who is also the Penang State Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) president, said that the state government established the Palestine Humanitarian Aid Fund on Oct 13 out of concern for the Palestinian people and that donations could be made to a special account through MAINPP.
He said RM50,000 had been donated by the state government, with the remainder coming from corporate figures, Penang Zakat, collections following Friday prayers on Oct 13 and 20, and members of the public concerned about the plight of the Palestinian people.
"During the fundraising, a variety of events were organised, including the Palestinian People's Solidarity Peace Gathering, a special exhibition honouring Gaza, and a love-filled gathering to demonstrate our solidarity with the Palestinian people," he said after handing over the contribution here today.
According to Mohamad, the donation that was received today had been collected up until yesterday.
He however said that they would continue collecting donations.
"All mosques and suraus statewide are also asked to continue performing the Qunut Nazilah during Friday prayers followed by Sunat Hajat prayers after Friday prayers as a sign of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
"As Malaysians who love peace, I represent the state government in condemning all forms of inhumane actions as perpetrated by the Israeli Zionist regime against the Palestinian people," he added.
Meanwhile, Badereddin expressed gratitude to Malaysians, particularly the people of Penang, for their assistance in directing donations to Palestine, while simultaneously urging all Muslims worldwide to aid the Palestinian people in regaining their rights.
Badereddin, who is still saddened over the death of his sister and brother-in-law after their house in Gaza was bombed yesterday, expressed gratitude because the people here were always concerned and had never forgotten those in Palestine.
"Although I am still sad because I just found out that my sister and her husband died, I am strong enough to come today because I know that Malaysians strongly support Palestine.
"With that spirit, we will continue to defend our homeland," he said.
Badereddin has been living in Malaysia since 2019.