KUALA LUMPUR – Observers have likened the abundance of events expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause to a popularity contest, saying some politicians were riding on the solidarity rallies for personal gain, while the spirit of bipartisanship remains elusive at these protests.
In the seven rallies held since early October, political analysts have observed a conspicuous absence of lawmakers from both sides of the political divide standing together in the name of solidarity.
The analysts agreed that the absence of political parties may be driven by hidden motives aimed at gaining political advantage.
Assoc Prof Awang Azman Awang Pawi from Universiti Malaya argued that politicians protesting against Israel’s actions towards Palestinians could connect with their base, demonstrate their stance, and use it as a tool to gain political mileage.
“In critical analysis, some parties may use such rallies not only to express genuine support for global causes, but to also gain political advantage, as they can demonstrate their stance on international issues, which may resonate with their supporters and help them garner additional votes or strengthen their political image.
“However, it’s essential to differentiate between genuine support for a cause and political opportunism in these situations,” he said.
He further added that political parties have historically capitalised on significant global events, crises or controversies to further their political objectives. Politicians have often framed such issues to align with their own ideologies, gain support or divert public attention from other matters.
“This practice is a common aspect of politics, and its ethical implications can vary depending on the sincerity and motivations of political actors involved. But such events should not just be about politicians speaking on humanitarian matters, they should be able to come up with concrete solutions to deliver actual help.”
He argued that merely condemning and raising voices is insufficient. Each politician sought political mileage but lacked ideas on implementing solutions.
He also noted that the organisation of separate solidarity events by each political party or coalition demonstrated a lack of unity despite the common goal of supporting Palestine.
“There is no unity among political parties, even though these rallies are about Palestine solidarity. They could have all come together at one rally, but this is not the case. Perhaps they don’t want to be seen as acting under the direction of one another, so they chose to hold separate events. This is not a healthy culture, especially when they should unite based on humanity, transcending narrow political understanding, religion and ethnicity.”
‘Parties riding on Palestine issue to win Malay votes’
Prof Datuk Shamsul Amri Baharuddin from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia agreed with Awang’s perspective, adding that leaders from all political parties, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, were using the crisis for political gain.
He observed that there was no indication of a possible collaboration between Perikatan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional in showing solidarity with Palestine.
“The solidarity is superficial but with strong underlying political interests. The Palestine-Israel struggle is a nationalist struggle, but in Malaysia, the conflict has been overshadowed by religious narratives, causing the nationalist perspective to be lost.”
He criticised political parties for overemphasising these rallies and further confusing the public.
“All parties are riding on the issue to win Malay-Muslim votes, be it Perikatan Nasional or Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional. They are all obsessed with gaining votes.”
He pointed out that the display of solidarity had devolved into a political spectacle, with each party attempting to outdo the other in terms of protest effectiveness.
“However, the fundamental issue remains that they are seeking votes using global issues, wrapped in religious matters.”
Yesterday, PAS and Bersatu organised a 10,000-strong Palestine Solidarity Rally, joined by non-governmental organisations along Jalan Tun Razak leading to the US embassy.
However, no government lawmakers were present at the seventh solidarity rally held in the country since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza on October 7.
Meanwhile, the Malaysia Stands with Palestine rally, organised by Global Peace Mission and endorsed by the government, was held at the Axiata Arena on October 24. Opposition lawmakers were also conspicuously absent at the fifth solidarity rally. – October 29, 2023