Helping Gaza won’t hurt Malaysia’s development, says ex-Bersatu leader

 

Mahathir Rais says efforts to rebuild Gaza are funded through corporate donations, international contributions, and Islamic endowments.

(FMT) – Malaysia’s efforts to help rebuild Gaza will not come at the expense of its own development as no taxpayer funds will be used, says former Bersatu leader Mahathir Rais.

He said that the initiative, a collaboration between Malaysia and Japan, would be funded primarily through corporate donations, international contributions, and waqaf or Islamic endowments.

“Waqaf is a unique Islamic financial instrument where wealth is voluntarily dedicated to public welfare such as for education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

“It is not part of government tax revenue but relies on private contributions from individuals and organisations,” he said in a statement today.

Mahathir also said that national development funds would remain untouched, addressing concerns that Malaysia’s aid for Gaza could divert resources from domestic priorities.

“Non-Muslims are not obligated or impacted by waqaf contributions, as they are voluntary donations made by Muslims,” he added.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently announced Malaysia’s plan to assist Gaza by constructing a school, hospital, and mosque in collaboration with the Japanese government. These projects will be carried out with support from the private sector and the Malaysian public.

However, critics, including former federal minister Rafidah Aziz and Julau MP Larry Sng, had urged Putrajaya to prioritise domestic issues.

Mahathir dismissed these concerns, saying the government remained committed to national development and citing major projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway and ongoing improvements in rural areas.

“Rather than dwelling on shortcomings, it is more productive to recognise progress, remain patient, and collectively work towards building a stronger Malaysia for future generations,” he said.

Source : FreeMalaysiaToday