AMID the spate of boycotts of Israel-linked companies following the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Minister Fuziah Salleh has urged Malaysians to make informed decisions based on fact and not emotions.
Malay Mail quoted the minister as saying that Malaysians should explore alternative ways of expressing their support for the Palestinian people, such as making charitable contributions through reputable non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“I believe that people should rely on facts, and not solely emotions. While we may feel emotional about Gaza, there are alternative ways to express support, such as making donations through reliable NGOs,” she was reported as saying during a press conference following the launch of the Buy Malaysian Goods Campaign today (Dec 7).
“Perhaps they can channel their sadness and solidarity in that way.”
However, Fuziah acknowledged that at the end of the day, it is a personal choice and a matter of individual rights, adding that any decision should be done with awareness and be factually correct.
Meanwhile, Fuziah announced that the ministry has allocated a budget of RM12 mil for the Buy Malaysian Goods Campaign for 2024 with a specific allocation of RM5 mil dedicated to extensive campaigns, promotions and business-matching initiatives that are aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs.
She said the move will bolster entrepreneurs and their products, fostering growth both domestically and internationally.
“For the next year, KPDN will receive an allocation of RM12 mil for the Buy Malaysian Goods Campaign, with RM5 mil allocated for campaigns, promotions and business matching to assist the entrepreneurs of Malaysian products to thrive both domestically and internationally,” she remarked.
When quizzed about who is going to be the next domestic trade and cost of living minister, Fuziah said to wait for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement.
Former domestic trade and cost of living minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub passed away aged 61 at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, Kedah, due to a brain haemorrhage on July 23 this year.
His duties are currently assumed by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah, Sarawak Affairs and Special Functions) Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali. – Dec 7, 2023
Main pic credit: Bernama
