PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has denounced the act of displaying the Israeli flag and Hebrew language stickers in public spaces in Malaysia, calling it unacceptable and in direct violation of national policy.
“This offends public sentiment and contradicts the country’s longstanding policy. Regardless of the intent, it is wrong,” said Anwar during Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday.
Referring to the recent incident where an Israeli flag was reportedly flown during a solidarity event in Kelantan, Anwar said such actions amounted to betrayal.
“No country under occupation has ever flown the flag of the occupier – doing so would be considered an act of treachery,” he said in response to a question from Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah (BN–Paya Besar).
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has since opened an investigation under the National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949, and is also probing a separate case involving a four-wheel-drive vehicle allegedly bearing a Hebrew-language sticker with the phrase “Malaysia is our home” or “Malaysia in our hands.”
Meanwhile, Anwar also addressed Malaysia’s stance on the United States' peace plan for Gaza, affirming conditional support based on several key principles.
“Malaysia supports any initiative that seeks to end the killing of civilians, particularly women and children, and to halt the destruction of Gaza,” he said, adding that Malaysia’s endorsement of the plan led by President Donald Trump hinges on the recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state and the return of displaced Palestinians.
“Our position aligns with several other Muslim nations. However, the plan’s 20 points fail to address the core issues — the rights of the Palestinian people, the status of their state, and the illegal occupation of the West Bank,” he said.
Malaysia was not among the 24 countries invited to attend the peace talks in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, due to this conditional stance.
Anwar revealed he had received a letter of appreciation from Hamas for Malaysia’s unwavering position in calling for an immediate ceasefire.
Beyond diplomacy, Anwar said Malaysia is committed to tangible support, including rebuilding efforts in Gaza.
“Malaysia will focus on reconstructing schools, hospitals and mosques, alongside partners such as Japan, China, Brazil and South Africa,” he said, adding that Qatar and Saudi Arabia had agreed to expedite the delivery of humanitarian aid.
“Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has pledged immediate assistance for basic facilities,” he noted, while also highlighting Malaysia’s co-chairing role in the Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD).
In response to a query from Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (PN–Kubang Kerian), Anwar confirmed Malaysia’s readiness to dispatch medical teams and join a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Gaza, if called upon.
“Malaysia will never shy away from its responsibilities. If there is a peacekeeping initiative, we are prepared to participate,” he said. - October 14, 2025
