Malaysia’s education ministry has withdrawn from the Frankfurt Book Fair this year, claiming that the organizers were taking a pro-Israel position in the midst of growing international strife over the ongoing fight between Israeli and Palestinian troops.
Following the fatal attack by the violent group Hamas in Israel on October 7, Malaysia decided to cancel what is regarded as the largest trade fair for books in the world. This decision was made by literary partnership Litprom.
Additionally, the fair’s organizer announced on Facebook that Israeli and Jewish voices would be” especially visible” at the upcoming edition.
The Malaysian education ministry stated in a statement late on Monday( Oct 16) that the ministry” did not deal with Israel’s murder in Palestine, which plainly violates worldwide laws and people right.”
” The administration’s decision to withdraw is in line with its position to support Palestine wholeheartedly and in unity.”
Malaysia’s Muslim-majority population has long backed the Arab cause, and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated this week that he disagreed with Western pressure to denounce Hamas.
Following a telephone conversation with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday, Anwar demanded the immediate cessation of Gaza’s assault and the creation of an emergency humanitarian corridor.