Malaysia to Assist in Gaza’s Reconstruction with School, Hospital, and Mosque
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 (Bernama) — Malaysia will build a school, hospital, and mosque as an initial effort to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza, Palestine, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The reconstruction will be jointly carried out in collaboration with the people and private sector. "This is a part of our efforts, the sacrifices of the communities and the people. May Allah protect us and guarantee the safety of Gaza and Palestine,” he said via a video recording today.
The reconstruction of Gaza will involve joint efforts by the Japanese and Malaysian governments, which intend to establish and launch funds through the East Asia programme. On January 18, Anwar was reported to have said that the reconstruction of Gaza, which was almost entirely destroyed due to Israeli attacks since October 2023, is estimated to cost over US$1 trillion.
He said that such a substantial amount is required because key facilities such as mosques, schools, hospitals, and homes have been demolished.
Anwar also said that Japan had invited Malaysia to co-chair the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD), focusing on Gaza’s reconstruction.
Meanwhile, Anwar posted on Facebook that the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza, following the atrocities that claimed more than 46,000 lives and left over two million Palestinians homeless, should be welcomed with plans for Gaza’s recovery. "Let us offer prayers and hopes that Allah SWT continues to provide protection for Gaza and Palestine as well as bless every effort and sacrifice we make in giving them new hope, Insya-Allah,” he said.
Previously, Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Jassim Al Thani, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that mediation efforts involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States succeeded in achieving a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, as well as a prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel. The agreement, which came into effect on January 19, among others stipulates that Hamas will release 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s commitment to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza is a significant step towards supporting the people of Palestine in their time of need. The construction of a school, hospital, and mosque will provide much-needed facilities for the community, and the joint efforts between the Malaysian and Japanese governments will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the estimated cost of reconstructing Gaza?
A: The estimated cost is over US$1 trillion.
Q: What is the purpose of the East Asia programme?
A: The East Asia programme aims to establish and launch funds for the reconstruction of Gaza.
Q: What is the role of Japan in the reconstruction of Gaza?
A: Japan has invited Malaysia to co-chair the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD), focusing on Gaza’s reconstruction.
Q: What is the agreement between Hamas and Israel?
A: The agreement stipulates that Hamas will release 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees.