KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — Malaysia is now prioritising the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza through the land route via the Rafah border, following its reopening, which the government considers a more efficient and secure channel.
Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said the reopened crossing provides a better alternative to ensure that essential supplies can be delivered directly to Palestinians in need.
He said participation in humanitarian missions such as the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) is now regarded as a personal decision for individuals or activists, driven by their own principles in support of Palestine.
“Their participation in such programmes is a personal choice based on individual conviction in advocating issues related to Palestine and Gaza. The government will provide assistance if any problems arise,” he said, adding that with the land route now open, aid delivery through direct channels should be prioritised.
Despite focusing on land-based deliveries, Lukanisman stressed that maritime missions like the GSF still play a role in drawing international attention and increasing pressure on Israel, particularly through global media coverage.
He also said Malaysia has successfully channelled various forms of aid — including food, medicine, and solar lamps — to Gaza through existing mechanisms.
On diplomatic efforts, he said the Foreign Ministry continues to strengthen cooperation and collective pressure through multilateral platforms such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the United Nations, and the European Union.
He added that Malaysia is actively involved in advancing cross-sectoral support through initiatives such as the Brussels 2026 Declaration, which brings together parliamentarians, political leaders, and civil society groups from Europe and Malaysia to sustain international focus on the Palestinian issue.
Earlier in the Dewan Rakyat, Lukanisman condemned the violent actions of Israeli authorities in detaining participants of the GSF 2.0 mission and expressed appreciation to the Turkish government for assisting in the safe return of 29 Malaysian volunteers.
— MINUTESMY
