‘Don’t let the world forget’: Mapim calls for Gaza remembrance day on Oct 7

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 — The Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisations (Mapim) has urged the world to commemorate October 7, 2026 as a day of remembrance and support for the Palestinian people, marking the third anniversary since the Gaza crisis began. In a statement released on September 30, Mapim president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid stressed the urgent need to address the suffering endured by Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza, who continue to confront devastation, displacement, lack of basic necessities, and threats to their security.

Despite the ceasefire announced in October 2025, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with 94% of the population in need of shelter and essential supplies, and 65% of households residing in tents or temporary accommodations. A staggering 451 displacement sites, housing around 464,402 individuals, are at risk of flooding during the upcoming rainy season.

Mapim highlighted the plight of children, with UNICEF reporting that approximately 1.9 million out of Gaza's 2.1 million residents have been displaced, further disrupting healthcare, sanitation, and protection services. Symbolizing more than a mere reminder of the tragedy, Mapim envisions October 7, 2026 as a day to foster awareness, solidarity, and renewed humanitarian aid to Gaza and Palestine.

Under the "Three Years of Gaza: Don’t Let the World Forget" campaign, Mapim aims to raise awareness through five key messages, such as honoring the victims, acknowledging the destruction and survivors, and urging the international community to take action. Programmes from October 1 to 7 include the launch of the Remember Gaza campaign, Gaza Memory Day, a forum on the crisis, a winter humanitarian aid drive, Mosque for Gaza, and Global Solidarity Night, culminating in a National Gaza Memorial Day on October 7.

The day will feature prayers for the fallen, readings of their stories, testimonies from Palestinians, fundraising efforts, calls to governments and the international community, and a Malaysian solidarity declaration for Palestine. Mapim emphasizes that while three years have passed, Gaza should not be forgotten. "We remember the victims, stand with the survivors, help those in need, and continue to call on the world to defend humanity," Mapim concluded.