Malaysia is well-positioned to promote global collaboration in the reconstruction of Gaza – Analyst

Analysts believe Malaysia can play a key role in encouraging more countries to collaborate in the reconstruction of Gaza through diplomatic efforts.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), Prof. Dr. Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani, stated that rebuilding the besieged enclave—of which more than 80% has been destroyed—requires collective cooperation from multiple nations.

“We cannot fully rebuild Gaza on our own, but we can adopt a democratic approach by collaborating with Gulf countries that provide funding, as well as other nations,” he told Bernama.

Beyond financial aid, Mohd Azizuddin emphasized that the most crucial factor is the political will of all involved parties to ensure the ceasefire, which began on January 19, remains in place so reconstruction efforts can proceed smoothly.

In this context, he said Malaysia should maximize its role as a middle power and its upcoming ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship to leverage diplomatic efforts for lasting peace in the enclave.

Mohd Azizuddin stressed that diplomatic and political negotiations must be conducted harmoniously among various parties with the shared goal of rebuilding Gaza, as the process will not be easy.

“We know that the reconstruction of Gaza will involve Hamas, so Western countries, in particular, will need to find some level of compromise with Hamas to work together in rebuilding Gaza,” he said.

Regarding Malaysia’s commitment to the reconstruction efforts, Mohd Azizuddin urged critics to be realistic, emphasizing that Malaysia’s involvement is part of a broader collective initiative by multiple nations.

“The Prime Minister’s announcement is not an economic burden since we are focusing on building a mosque, a school, and a hospital.

“This effort is being undertaken by many countries, with the Gulf nations likely serving as the primary financial contributors to Gaza’s reconstruction,” he added.

Sharing a similar view, Prof. Dr. Jatswan Singh from the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Taylor’s University stated that Malaysia has sufficient resources to address its domestic issues while also contributing internationally.

“We need to extend aid at the international level where it is needed,” he said.

Elaborating further, Jatswan highlighted that Malaysia can take on a more active role in mobilizing Asian nations to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction, including through the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD).

He noted that Malaysia holds an advantage after agreeing to co-chair the CEAPAD Ministerial Meeting, led by Japan, in July this year.

“Malaysia should utilize its diplomatic channels effectively to encourage more countries to initiate humanitarian and reconstruction missions in Gaza,” he said.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysia would build a school, a hospital, and a mosque as an initial step in supporting Gaza’s reconstruction.

However, some critics have questioned the Prime Minister’s decision, arguing that the government should prioritize addressing domestic issues before committing to international aid.