MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT WORKING WITH INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS TO EVACUATE MALAYSIAN MEDICAL TEAM FROM RAFAH

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is aware of, and deeply concerned about, the safety of the stranded Malaysian medical team, consisting of six personnel, in Rafah, Gaza since 1 May 2024. The team, from MERCY Malaysia's Emergency Medical Team, is part of the World Health Organisation’s medical delegation to Rafah, Gaza.

The safety and security of the team are of paramount importance to the Malaysian Government. The Government has initiated close collaboration with the State of Qatar, building upon recent discussions led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato' Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan regarding joint humanitarian efforts in Gaza with Qatari Minister of State for International Cooperation Lolwah Rashid Al-Khater. Additionally, the Ministry is working closely with the Arab Republic of Egypt and Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to explore all possible avenues for their safe evacuation from the conflict zone.

Given the tense and extremely fluid situation, it is crucial that the rescue operation is carried out efficiently and smoothly through diplomatic channels.

Due to the escalating situation in Rafah, Gaza, and its surrounding areas, the Malaysian Government strongly urges all Malaysians, especially those affiliated with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), to refrain from travelling to the conflict zone. This advisory reiterates the directive issued during an inter-agency meeting with NGOs on 16 October 2023 and 23 January 2024 in Wisma Putra.

The Ministry reiterates its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safe return of Malaysian citizens. All necessary measures are being taken, and the Ministry will continue to work with international partners to bring the medical team home safely.

 

 

PUTRAJAYA

20 May 2024