“What Makes Us Silent?”: IIUM Students and Leaders Rally in Solidarity for Palestine

By, Syuhadah Fitri

GOMBAK, 10 October 2025: Hundreds of IIUM students and international representatives gathered in front of the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (SHAS) Mosque after Jumu’ah prayer for a solidarity rally with the theme “Feed Hope, Free Palestine”. The event was initiated with the intention to raise awareness and express the unity for the people of Palestine amid the ongoing humanitarian crises. 

The event began with the opening speech by the event organiser, featuring a special guest appearance, YB Senator Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, Deputy Minister in the Department of Prime Minister (Religious Affairs), who also joined the congregation for Jumu’ah prayer earlier that day. 

The rally began at the foyer of SHAS Mosque, continued along the riverside, and concluded in front of the IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC). Throughout the rally, the participants’ spirit reverberated through the powerful chants echoed across the open air, with voices of unity that carried on banners and the flags hoisted high by the hands of the unwavering pride. Despite the scorching heat, their passion blazed, unstoppable in relaying the message that resonated with the world. 

At the final checkpoint in front of ICC, representatives from different countries including India, Bangladesh, Philippines, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia were given the opportunity to deliver their messages. Differences in languages did not hinder them in relaying the message of solidarity to the world. One of the most memorable moments was when the Palestinian student representative addressed the crowd, courageously sharing the truth about the struggles faced by their people and urging everyone to stand firm in unity and compassion.

The rally also featured a powerful demonstration of boycotted products, organised by students to raise awareness about ethical consumption and the global impact of solidarity movements. The students voiced their concern over the disheartening decline in boycott efforts and how such a simple yet powerful act of solidarity with the people of Palestine is gradually being forgotten.

“I think this is the bare minimum we should do as a student,” said Br. Ali Karimi, the main organiser, also the President of IIUM Student Union. “To get other clubs and societies be united to stand in solidarity with our friends in Palestine would be enough reason for us to gather here,” he added.

“It saddens me as an ummah because the people there are also our brothers and sisters” shared one of the participants of the rally. 

Another participant added, “We need to carry out our duty as a Muslim,” reflecting the shared sense of responsibility that united everyone throughout the rally.

The event concluded with collective prayer for the people of Palestine, as participants reaffirmed their awareness and continue standing in unwavering support of their cause.***