KUALA LUMPUR – An upcoming trade and economic memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and Palestine will not only bolster their existing relationship but also play a crucial role in rebuilding war-torn Gaza, according to Palestine’s ambassador to Malaysia Walid Abu Ali.
“As Israel is targeting and focusing so much on damaging and destroying all our infrastructure, if we achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and Gaza is going to be rebuilt, Malaysians can participate in rebuilding Gaza after the huge damage created by the Israeli occupying forces,” he said.
He highlighted the devastation inflicted upon Gaza, noting that nearly 85% of its infrastructure – including schools, hospitals, mosques, and churches – has been destroyed by Israeli forces.
“The entire infrastructure – from sewage systems to water supplies and buildings – has been targeted,” Walid told Scoop at the Palestine embassy here, recently.
He also expressed confidence that the MoU would align with one of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s key objectives of attracting investment to Malaysia.
“We aim to attract Palestinian investors and businessmen to view Malaysia as a prime investment destination, which will help strengthen the Malaysia-Palestine relationship,” he said.
Although the MoU has yet to be officially signed, it represents a significant step forward in expanding economic ties between the two nations.
Walid explained that extensive discussions had taken place between the two governments, facilitated by Wisma Putra, leading to the finalisation of the MoU.
“It is noteworthy that this trade MoU is unique due to Palestine’s ongoing Israeli occupation and Malaysia’s lack of diplomatic relations with Israel.
“Implementing the MoU, including exporting and importing between the two countries, is challenging because the borders are controlled by Israel,” he said.
The official signing of the MoU is scheduled for next month during the Malaysia International Halal Showcase Expo.
He said following discussions with Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, it has been agreed that Palestine’s trade and investment minister will visit Malaysia to sign the MoU.
There is considerable interest in boosting trade between the two countries, with a focus on bringing Palestinian products such as Medjool dates, olive oil, and handicrafts to the Malaysian market.
The ambassador also emphasised the importance of promoting pilgrimage and religious tourism to Palestine, noting the strong desire among Malaysians to visit holy sites – including al-Aqsa Mosque.
“We hope this MoU will also encourage other nations to participate in Palestine’s reconstruction. Malaysia’s steadfast support for Palestine is well-known, and we hope it will inspire other Asian countries to follow suit,” he said.
On August 12, Tengku Zafrul announced the forthcoming MoU, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to supporting Palestine’s economic recovery. Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Palestine saw a 52.1% increase, reaching RM20.8 million in 2023 compared to the previous year. – August 23, 2024