Malaysia asserts its support to the government-MILF peace process

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 25): Malaysia asserts its support to the government-MILF peace process 

DAVAO CITY -- An official of the Malaysian government in the city reiterated their country’s support for the pursuit of a lasting peace in Mindanao despite the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in Congress.

Speaking to reporters during the induction of leaders and members of the Davao Region Maranao Leaders Confederation, Consul-general Abdullah Zawai Tahir of the Malaysian Embassy said his country’s commitment to the peace in Mindanao has been there for the last 17 years in the negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation.

He recalled that the deal was almost reached until the Mamasapano incident happened where 44 police commandois and 16 people including members of the MILF were killed in the encounter.

“Our leaders and the people of Malaysia are sincere to see a lasting peace in Mindanao,” Tahir said.

He stressed that their support to the peace in Mindanao has nothing to do with the Sabah claim.

Tahir said their support to the peace process and the Sabah claim are two separate issues.

He cited that before the reign of foreigners to Malaysia under the British for 100 years, Indonesia under the Dutch and the Philippines under the Spaniards and Americans, respectively, these countries belonged to one single nation.

“It is from the bottom of our hearts, both Muslim brothers and sisters to realize a lasting peace in Mindanao and to see prosperity in the country,” Tahir said.

He said the issue on integrity is raised only by politicians but not from the people.

Tahir stressed their concern for the peace process is not solely focused on the Philippines.

He said the Malaysian government is asked by the Organization of Islamic Countries to play a positive rule in the peace process in Southern Thailand, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Congo, Lebanon and conduct humanitarian activities in other parts of the World in the name of Islam.

“As long as we are accepted by the people, Malaysia will do its best with the help of God,” Tahir said. 

He said peace in Mindanao means stability in the East Asian region.

Tahir expressed thanks to the confidence shown by the Philippine government.

He also observed a lot of progress in the Muslim areas in Mindanao due to the holding of the ceasefire for the past three years.

“The economy, livelihood and education have greatly improved due to the peace process and there are also strong pull for the investors to come in to Mindanao.   We must not sacrifice these developments,” Tahir pointed out.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381453689359/malaysia-asserts-its-support-to-the-government-milf-peace-process-