The Malaysian Insight

PUTRAJAYA should have called for a special parliamentary sitting to condemn the United States’ decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, said lawmaker Khalid Samad.

The Shah Alam MP said although tomorrow’s rally was a good bipartisan initiative, the government could have done more to address the plight of the Palestinian people.

“Forums, rallies are for civil societies to organise, as a government, you have the advantage and can do more than that.

“They should call for a special parliamentary sitting, because the Malaysian Parliament represents the people of Malaysia to condemn US’ decision,” he said at a press conference today.

Prime Minister Najib Razak and PAS leaders are expected to lead tomorrow’s gathering, which will be held in Putrajaya.

On December 16, Najib said Umno and PAS must seek ways to address the issue.

Khalid said that the gathering should also invite other leaders who have championed Palestine issues, such as former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu.

Amanah vice-president Hasanuddin Mohd Yunus, however, will attend a forum held before the rally, Khalid added.

“For the rally, there is no need for us to attend because that is Umno’s and PAS’ function,” he said.

On Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said more than 10,000 people are expected to be at the rally and invited all political parties to attend. – December 21, 2017.