KUALA LUMPUR: Hundreds of protestors gathered in Malaysia’s capital on 24 October 2024 to voice their opposition to United States President Donald Trump’s upcoming attendance at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. Scheduled from 26 to 28 October, Trump’s visit marks the first by a US president to Malaysia in a decade, raising eyebrows and sparking dissent.
Protests Led by PAS
The demonstration was spearheaded by Malaysia’s largest opposition party, Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), and fortified by pro-Palestine activists. After Friday prayers, the participants, predominantly dressed in black and brandishing Palestine flags, marched from Menara Tabung Haji towards the US embassy, chanting slogans like “Get out Donald Trump” and “Free Palestine”.
- Many held placards with messages such as “Dump Trump”.
- The rally was peaceful, with speakers including PAS youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden.
- This protest aimed to express dissatisfaction with Trump’s perceived support for Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Second Wave of Protests
Another significant protest is expected to take place on 27 October at Ampang Park, with various groups like BDS Malaysia and Secretariat of Solidarity with Palestine (SSP) participating. Organisers anticipate around 2,000 attendees at this event, which aims to showcase solidarity with Palestine and condemn Trump’s foreign policies.
Political Reactions and Implications
Despite the anticipated protests, analysts believe they won’t derail Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s agenda, which focuses on enhancing trade and regional security. Anwar stated that Malaysia must maintain a strong relationship with the US while addressing international concerns, particularly regarding Gaza.
- Protest organiser Mohd Nazari Ismail projected that around 10,000 people might attend the Friday event.
- Political analysts assert that both state policy and international relations will outweigh public sentiment in terms of summit discussions.
Background of the Gaza Conflict
The demonstrations come amid a tumultuous period for Gaza, which has seen escalating conflict since Hamas’s attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. Since then, Israeli retaliations have resulted in significant loss of life and humanitarian challenges in Gaza.
Trump has been credited with facilitating a temporary ceasefire agreement implemented on 10 October, yet many protestors argue that his administration offers undue support to Israel, exacerbating humanitarian crises in the region.
The Protests and Security Considerations
As tensions build, Malaysian authorities have indicated that while protests are a constitutional right, maintaining public safety is paramount. Police have proposed alternative locations for demonstrations to prevent disruption near the summit venue at KLCC.
Addressing the protests, Anwar acknowledged the citizens’ right to express dissent but emphasised the need for public tranquility during this significant diplomatic gathering.
The coming days are poised to reflect not just the political landscape, but also the deep-seated sentiments within Malaysia regarding international relations and the Palestinian cause.