Mohamad Hasan: Malaysia increases UNRWA contribution by US$1mil

Malaysia has raised its financial aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) by US$1 million. This increase was announced by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan during a speech at the OIC Annual Coordination Meeting and Meeting of Foreign Ministers. The additional contribution will be distributed over five years until 2030, with a yearly amount of US$200,000.

Minister Hasan emphasized the importance of sending a strong message that Palestinian statehood cannot be postponed indefinitely. Consequently, Malaysia proposed that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) should advocate for a swift and enduring ceasefire. In his speech, he also urged Israel to cease all acts of settler violence in the West Bank, halt the illegal eviction of Palestinians in Jerusalem, and refrain from any measures that could change the identity and sanctity of Jerusalem's holy sites.

Furthermore, Malaysia called on OIC member states to bolster their support in safeguarding, restoring, and fortifying Palestinian institutions, aiming to hold Israel accountable for any breaches of international law. These transgressions include allegations of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Additionally, Malaysia demanded appropriate compensation for the Palestinian people.

He further stated that the OIC should play a crucial role in advancing steps towards the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and viable Palestinian state, consistent with the two-state solution.