By Alia Azwa
Edited by Fasihah Zulkifli
GOMBAK, 21 October 2023: The IIUM Student Union organised a night of solidarity as they hosted “Night for Palestine: Solidarity in Diversity.” The event occurred on 18 November 2023 at the Main Staircase of the Abdul Rauf Building. It featured 16 distinguished speakers who delivered speeches, sharing their perspectives on the ongoing situation in Palestine.
Some of the speakers including the IIUM Deputy Rector, Prof. Dr. Akmal Khuzairy Bin Abd. Rahman, President of IIUM Students Union, Muntasir Aznan, Deputy president of the IIUM Student Union, Yuveraaj Pillai, as well as representatives from various organisations, delivered the historical, political, and humanitarian aspects of the Palestine-Israel conflict.
Flash mob by IIUM Student Union
The event commenced with an opening ceremony setting the night’s tone. Attendees were welcomed with a flash mob performance by the IIUM Student Union, depicting the current situation in Palestine that transported everyone to the heart of Palestine.
Prof. Dr Akmal Khuzairy Bin Abd. Rahman, Deputy Rector of IIUM
The first speaker was Prof. Dr. Akmal Khuzairy Bin Abd. Rahman, Deputy Rector of IIUM Gombak Campus, passionately urges university students to actively engage in virtual advocacy for Palestine through social media and consider boycotting companies associated with the regime to support the liberation of Palestine continuously.
“We must equip ourselves with knowledge about the history of the Israeli and Palestinian war. The very least we can do is try to flood the internet with these messages, facts, and arguments. Stand out in delivering the truth.” said Prof. Dr. Akmal Khuzairy.
President of IIUM Student Union, Muntasir Aznan
Moreover, the IIUM Student Union, Muntasir Aznan reminds the audience about the conflict in Gaza, then urges for the focused actions to support Palestine, emphasising learning, spreading awareness, boycotting, and donating, as it is deemed as jihad for Al-Aqsa liberation.
“This is not the time for us to be distracted, to be swayed, or to lose focus; it is the time for jihad and full liberation. We should focus on 4 things which are learn, spread, boycott and donate.” Muntasir stressed on.
Throughout the rally, speakers delved into the historical roots of the Palestinian struggle, shedding light on the importance of addressing the situation’s complexities for a more empathetic community.
Representative from a Palestinian student
The event left a significant memory, with a representative from Palestinian student who delivered a speech and received a very enthusiastic response from the audience as they were chanting along with the speakers.
“People are losing their beloved everyday. That is what is going on right now in Gaza. Imagine you are in their shoes. What do you want Muslims across the world to do for you?” He added.
The “Night for Palestine: Solidarity in Diversity” left an indelible mark on the participants, fostering a greater understanding of the Palestine-Israel conflict and standing together in the face of adversity. The event ended with an enchanting performance followed by prayer and Qunut Nazilah.***
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