The Contribution of NGOs in Strengthening Malaysia-Palestine Relation

Abstract

The Malaysian Government actively endorses and reinforces the endeavors of NGOs in aiding Palestine, viewing it as a momentous international humanitarian matter. Furthermore, the diplomatic connections maintained by NGOs with international organizations contribute to the effectiveness of their role in shaping Malaysia's foreign policy. Thus, our study sought to examine the contributions of NGOs in strengthening the interaction and bilateral relations between Malaysia and Palestine. We employed a qualitative approach, conducting interviews with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aman Palestin, and Viva Palestina Malaysia. The findings indicate that the involvement of NGOs in addressing the Palestinian issue has played a significant role in reinforcing the communication channels between Malaysia and Palestine. These channels have positively influenced the bilateral relations between the two political entities through interaction, negotiation, and soft diplomacy. The collaborative efforts and cooperation between NGOs and the Malaysian Government have been crucial in fostering harmonious ties between Malaysia and Palestine and influencing foreign policy. However, the study criticizes the Malaysian Government for having limited perspectives on the role of NGOs in assisting the Palestinians. The Malaysian Government could broaden its perspective on the role of NGOs in supporting Palestine. Presently, the government's discourse primarily centers on how NGOs raise awareness about the Palestinian issue among Malaysians and serve as conduits for delivering humanitarian aid to Palestine. It would be advantageous to broaden this perspective, particularly in acknowledging how even smaller NGOs can amplify the voice of the Malaysian people in providing continuous humanitarian assistance to Palestine.