Wednesday, June 16, 2010

MAPIM to hold Ramadhan March for Freedom in August

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 – Come August, the Malaysian Islamic Organisations Consultative Council (Mapim) will organise a convoy mission to Gaza.

Called ”Ramadhan March for Freedom”, the land convoy from the Rafah border crossing in Egypt is a follow-up initiative to the recently failed Freedom Flotilla human aid mission.

“The purpose of this mission is to continue the efforts of the Freedom Flotilla which was opposed by Israel on June 8, and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Palestinians in Gaza, through the Rafah border,” Mapim secretary-general Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid told reporters at the Parliament lobby here today.

In the incident, Turkish vessel Mavi Marmara which ferried volunteers and aid such as medicine, was attacked by Israeli commandos, causing the death of nine volunteers.

The 12 Malaysians who were also onboard the ship were safe.

Mohd Azmi said they were gathering activists from around the world to take part in the convoy which was expected to be held in Gaza throughout the fasting month, until Hari Raya Aidifitri celebrations.

“We will contact international activists to join us in the convoy which will see participation of non-governmental organisations, politicians, professionals, the media, religious leaders and personalities.

“We will take opportunities from the blessed month of Ramadhan to convey messages of peace and harmony to encourage world peace,” he said.

He added that a discussion would be held with the foreign ministry on the matter, including talks with the United Nations and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference.

Mohd Azmi said they would also launch an international lobby to pressure Egypt to change its policy to allow Palestinians in Gaza access to the world, as previously. – Bernama

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