Queen Raja Zarith Sofiah of Malaysia emphasized the significance of education for Palestinian students residing in Malaysia, providing them with hope and a pathway to a safer and more prosperous future amid the ongoing conflict in their homeland. In a royal engagement with students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), the Queen, who is also the chancellor of UTM, highlighted Malaysia's commitment to offering a secure environment and educational opportunities to young Palestinians.
During her address to the students, Queen Raja Zarith Sofiah underscored the crucial role of education in rebuilding the lives of Palestinian students and, eventually, their country. She emphasized the importance of knowledge, expressing the potential of education to empower students in various fields such as engineering and medicine. The Queen's message conveyed Malaysia's readiness to support Palestinian youth despite the geographical and political distance, offering them a sanctuary and the chance to dream and succeed.
The royal engagement was not merely a formal event but a deeply personal interaction that brought forth individual stories of grief, loss, and resilience among Palestinian students. Representatives from the Palestinian communities at UTM and UTHM, Dr. Mohamad Darwish and Mohammed A. A. Mansour, shared their experiences and the impact of the conflict on their lives and families. The session highlighted the importance of international solidarity and compassion, with the students expressing gratitude for the Queen's support and Malaysia's hospitality.
While Queen Raja Zarith Sofiah's initiative is a positive step towards supporting Palestinian students, it also sheds light on the broader challenges of conflict resolution and the role of education in conflict zones. The event serves as a reminder of the enduring power of education as a catalyst for change and emphasizes the importance of global support for displaced communities. Malaysia's ongoing efforts to provide a haven for Palestinian students not only enrich their lives but also contribute to the global endeavour for peace and understanding.
