Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim criticised those who questioned the government’s efforts in helping to rebuild Gaza.
He said opposing such efforts was not in line with Islamic teachings, which encouraged Muslims to extend assistance to those in need, especially fellow believers, within their means.
“One group claims this is just play-play. This (aid to Gaza) involves hundreds of millions. Then, there are so-called intelligent individuals, former leaders, with one saying we have not even resolved our own school issues, yet we want to help others.

“What kind of mindset is this? In Islam, we are not taught to think like that,” he said.
The prime minister said that since World War II, the situation in Gaza has been one of the worst humanitarian catastrophes, leaving Palestine devastated and continuously humiliated without recognition.
“Children, women, schools – everything has been destroyed. And when we try to help even a little, what is their response? They say we should solve our domestic issues first.
“Brothers and sisters, until the end of time, domestic issues will never be fully resolved; there will always be shortcomings somewhere, but we do what we can,” he said.
Yesterday, the media reported that former international trade and industry minister Rafidah Aziz urged the government to prioritise resolving domestic issues before committing to rebuilding Gaza.
On Jan 29, Anwar announced that Malaysia would spearhead efforts to rebuild Gaza by constructing a school, a hospital, and a mosque as part of its commitment to Palestinian redevelopment.
The initiative, Anwar said, would be carried out with public support and collaboration from the private sector.