39th IIUM Convocation: KICT graduand stuns audiences with solidarity Palestinian scarf

By Syafiah Sakirin

GOMBAK, 29 November 2023: œExpressing solidarity openly was empowering, said Anchumukkil Heavenly from Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology (KICT) after she proudly stood on stage wearing a Palestinian scarf while receiving her scroll.

Heavenly, an international student from India, received the scroll for completing her Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) degree. This took place in the third session of the 39th IIUM Convocation Ceremony on Sunday (26 November 2023), at IIUM Gombak.

In an exclusive interview with IIUM Today, she confessed that wearing a Palestinian scarf on convocation day was her way of showing solidarity with Palestine and her symbolic gesture representing her support for their struggle, freedom, and rights.

Heavenly receiving a scroll for the Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) at the 39th IIUM Convocation Ceremony.

œIt felt like a big responsibility to stand up for justice and let others know about the ongoing struggles faced by our brothers and sisters in Palestine, she explained when asked about the specific reasons for wearing the scarf.

She firmly insisted that everyone should express their support for Palestine as it is a global call for human rights, justice, and dignity that everyone should heed. Solidarity can create a ripple effect for positive change.

œIIUM students can organize seminars, peaceful demonstrations, or awareness campaigns to educate others about the Palestinian cause. Additionally, fundraising for humanitarian aid can make a tangible impact, she suggested.

She further mentioned that the support for Palestine within the IIUM community and among Muslims across Malaysia is heartening. It shows that there is a united and collective voice advocating for justice in Palestine.

œTo my fellow Muslims worldwide, let us stand united in support of Palestine. The challenges faced by our brothers and sisters there demand our unwavering support, prayers, and activism for a just resolution to their plight, she concluded the interview with this inspiring message. ***