malaysiang
KUALA LUMPUR: The government, through the Ministry of Defence (Mindef), is constantly monitoring the situation of the Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) 850-11, which is currently undertaking peacekeeping missions in southern Lebanon, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the ministry also keeps almost daily contact with their personnel there to ensure the presence and safety of all involved.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and adherence to the United Nations (UN) charter. He mentioned that Malaysia’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Azri Mat Yacob, is stationed in Beirut, closely observing the developments on the ground. Despite calls to withdraw, Malaysia remains aligned with UNIFIL and collaborates closely with countries like Indonesia and Brunei in decision-making processes regarding the mission.
Anwar also noted that the rotation of MALBATT 850-12 is planned to occur from Novem
ber 6 to 18. In a related move, Malaysia, together with 33 other UNIFIL-contributing nations, participated in a joint statement led by Poland, condemning Israel’s actions in Lebanon. Anwar criticized Israel for its aggressive stance, highlighting the risks posed to UN personnel in Lebanon due to these actions.
He reaffirmed Malaysia’s stance on the importance of deploying UNIFIL members to maintain peace and security in the volatile region. Alongside Malaysia, 50 UN member countries are involved in the UNIFIL mission, collectively contributing to a force of 10,058 personnel and officers.
