6-10-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) A Palestinian refugee has issued an apology for her role in a recent disturbance at the Wisma Transit Kuala Lumpur (WTKL), shedding light on the complex emotions and challenges faced by those fleeing conflict zones.
Aminah Muhammad Nafi’ Jamal Abd Rabah, in a TikTok video released on Saturday, conveyed her deep regret over the incident that occurred earlier in the week. The visibly distressed woman explained that her actions were fuelled by the anguish of being unable to contact her children in Gaza for over a week.
“I am truly sorry and deeply regret my actions,” Aminah said, her voice quavering with emotion. “I swear by Allah, it was not intentional. We are enduring an incredibly difficult situation that only the Almighty can fully comprehend.”
The incident in question took place on 2 October when a group of Palestinian refugees, including Aminah, became agitated after being denied permission to leave the WTKL premises. The situation escalated, resulting in property damage and a confrontation with security personnel.
KEKECOHAN DAN AMUKAN WARGA PALESTIN DI WISMA TRANSIT KUALA LUMPUR*
Pada 02 Okt 24 jam lebih kurang jam 1815, terdapat beberapa Warga Palestin yang menginap di Wisma Transit Kuala Lumpur telah membuat kekecohan dan amukan atas dasar tidakkepuasan hati. pic.twitter.com/43H9JSq48u
— #UpdateInfo???????????? (@update11111) October 3, 2024
In her video, Aminah was quick to acknowledge the warm reception and support that she and her fellow refugees have received in Malaysia. “The Malaysian people have shown us immense kindness, generosity, and respect. For this, we are eternally grateful,” she emphasised.
The WTKL, primarily a transit facility for military personnel and Defence Ministry staff, had denied the group’s request to leave as they were in Malaysia solely for transit purposes.
This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the treatment of refugees and the challenges they face. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail cautioned against using this isolated incident as grounds for repatriating the refugees to their war-torn homeland, highlighting the ongoing Israeli aggression in the region.
Palestinian Ambassador to Malaysia, Walid Abu Ali, provided context to the situation, revealing that 127 Palestinian citizens, including 41 individuals injured in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, had arrived in Malaysia on 16 August. Many of the injured have been receiving treatment at the Tuanku Mizan Military Hospital, with limited opportunities to venture outside.