Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia affirmed on Tuesday that Malaysia will uphold its ties with Hamas and will not label the group as a terrorist organization, according to CNN. This statement came in response to a lawmaker's inquiry regarding potential economic repercussions for Malaysia, following calls in the United States, including a proposed bill, to take action against foreign supporters of the Palestinian Islamist militant group, particularly after its attack on Israel on October 7.
Anwar stated, "I will not accept any threats," referring to the Hamas International Financing Prevention Act, which recently passed in the House of Representatives but still awaits approval in the Senate. He emphasized that this action is unilateral and lacks validity, asserting that Malaysia, as a member of the United Nations, only recognizes decisions made by the UN Security Council.
Both Malaysia and neighboring Indonesia, along with many Middle Eastern nations, have been vocal advocates of the Palestinian cause for decades. Malaysia has maintained its stance of not diplomatically recognizing Israel until a genuine two-state solution is achieved, granting Palestinians their own state.
Despite Hamas being designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, and Israel, prominent figures from Hamas have previously visited Malaysia and held meetings with government officials.
Anwar, who has been a staunch advocate for the Palestinian cause since his days as a student protest leader in the late 1960s, has resisted pressure to distance Malaysia from Hamas. He portrays his government's position as part of a broader effort to support the Palestinian people.
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Anwar asserted, "Palestine is colonized through apartheid, ethnic cleansing, and now genocide," underscoring that the actions taken represent the legitimate rights and struggle of the Palestinian people. He called for unity in supporting the Palestinian cause, urging all parties and members of the public to stand in solidarity with Palestine, rather than exploiting it for political purposes.
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