Malaysia’s Wakaf City Project: A Symbol of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
A Sustainable Effort Uniting Malaysians
The Malaysia Wakaf City project in Gaza, set to be launched after Ramadan, will be the first model of Malaysia’s wakaf development in Palestine, showcasing the nation’s solidarity with the Palestinian people. According to Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (MAPIM) chief executive officer, Datuk Sani Araby, the initiative goes beyond humanitarian aid, serving as a sustainable effort that unites Malaysians from all backgrounds in support of Palestine.
A High-Impact Initiative
Sani, who is also the founder and director of the Malaysia-Gaza Wakaf City Project, highlighted that the high-impact initiative is under the patronage of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He noted that the project aligns with Anwar’s role as an ASEAN leader advocating for Palestinian solidarity.
A New Era in Rebuilding Gaza
"This is not just an aid project but Malaysia’s first wakaf development model on Palestinian soil, setting an example for the world. It represents the unity of Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, working together to rebuild Gaza," Sani said in a statement today.
A Comprehensive Development
The Malaysia Wakaf City project, estimated to cost RM120 million, spans 35.2 hectares of wakaf land in Gaza, with an agreement signed in February 2023. So far, RM40 million in wakaf donations have been collected. The development includes:
- 14 wakaf apartment blocks, each representing a Malaysian state
- A mosque designed after the Shah Alam Mosque
- A Malaysian school
- A recreational park
- Business premises under the Micro-Credit Khardul Hasan programme
- A health clinic
- A water tank tower
State Governments and Organizations Contribute
Several state governments, including Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Terengganu, Kelantan, Melaka, and Penang, along with JAKIM, the Malaysian Wakaf Foundation (YWM), and the Sultan of Selangor, who launched the Selangor-Gaza Ihsan Development Fund, have also contributed to the project.
A Legacy of Humanitarian Efforts
MAPIM, together with Cinta Gaza Malaysia (CGM) and Gagasan MyAqsa Defender, has built 10 mosques in Gaza and assisted in repairing hospitals, schools, and homes. These past efforts have laid the foundation for a long-term, sustainable wakaf city.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s Wakaf City project is a shining example of the nation’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people. By providing a sustainable and comprehensive development, the project represents a new era in rebuilding Gaza. With the support of state governments, organizations, and individuals, this initiative will pave the way for a brighter future for the Palestinian people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the estimated cost of the Malaysia Wakaf City project?
A: The estimated cost of the project is RM120 million.
Q: How much has been collected in wakaf donations so far?
A: RM40 million in wakaf donations have been collected.
Q: What is the scope of the development?
A: The development includes 14 wakaf apartment blocks, a mosque, a school, a recreational park, business premises, a health clinic, and a water tank tower, among other facilities.
Q: Who are the key partners involved in the project?
A: The key partners include state governments, JAKIM, the Malaysian Wakaf Foundation (YWM), and the Sultan of Selangor, among others.