Defence minister highlights Malaysia's stance on Gaza conflict during ADMM meeting

JAKARTA: At the 17th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and 10th ADMM-Plus held in Jakarta on Wednesday, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan voiced Malaysia's profound concern regarding the situation in Gaza and the urgent call for an immediate ceasefire.

During this critical juncture, Minister Mohamad emphasized the imperative need to halt further loss of life, suffering, and destruction. He called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint and actively engage in de-escalation efforts.

"In these challenging times, Malaysia reiterates its unwavering demand for an immediate ceasefire, unobstructed humanitarian access, and the unequivocal rejection of any attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian people from their rightful land," stated Mohamad during his opening remarks at the event.

Minister Mohamad is leading the Malaysian delegation to the two-day meetings, themed 'Peace, Prosperity, and Security,' alongside the Ministry's Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Deputy Secretary-General (Policy) Mohamad Yani Daud, and other ministry officials.

As Indonesia assumed the chairmanship of ADMM and ADMM-Plus for 2023, Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto presided over the meeting. In his address, Prabowo raised concerns about the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and called upon ASEAN member states to actively support Myanmar in finding a lasting solution.

Recognizing the interconnected nature of the world, Prabowo acknowledged that conflicts in one region can have ripple effects on others. He underscored the significance of united efforts both locally and globally.

Prabowo also pointed out that escalating conflicts in regions such as Russia, Ukraine, and the Middle East elevate the risk of severe humanitarian crises.

He stated, "Indonesia is actively engaging with various parties to resolve this issue and establish a humanitarian corridor for the victims in Gaza." He highlighted the pressing need for the United Nations to take more robust actions to prevent similar conflicts.

-- BERNAMA