KUCHING: Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has welcomed the people of Sarawak who wish to gather in solidarity with the people of Palestine.
As such, the Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts is willing to issue permits for the gathering to take place at Celebration Square in the Sarawak Stadium for this assembly.
He pointed out that the Palestinian struggle is not a religious issue but rather a struggle for the liberation of their homeland.
“Therefore, if the people of Sarawak want to organise a solidarity event, they can use the Celebration Square, and I will issue the permit for the gathering,” he told the media here on Tuesday (Oct 24).
He made these remarks when asked to comment on the solidarity gathering for Palestine that was cancelled for certain reasons last week.
Meanwhile, Abdul Karim also expressed concerns about the tourism sector in Sarawak, which has been somewhat affected by the conflicts in the Middle East.
However, he noted that it has a more significant impact on the economy and the tourism industry in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Previously, Malaysia was one of the main destinations for tourists from Middle Eastern countries.
“Tourists from the Middle East preferred to visit countries like Thailand and Malaysia. However, with the unstable situation in Gaza, Palestine, the number of tourists from the Middle East visiting Malaysia may decrease.
“This could lead to a decline in Malaysia’s tourism sector, which previously contributed to the country’s economic growth.”
He hoped that the situation in Gaza will improve soon, which will help support the country’s economy, including the tourism industry.
