WISMA Putra has sought an explanation from Palestinian ambassador to Malaysia Walid Abu Ali on the issue of donations to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Palestine.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that a meeting with the ambassador was held today to seek further clarification on the issue.

It said the ambassador explained that his statement was made based on records from the Al-Aqsa Mosque management since 2018.

“However, he could not confirm whether the donations were specifically channelled to the Al-Aqsa Mosque Wakaf Department, which is managed by the Jordanian government,” Wisma Putra said.

On Tuesday, Walid said that donations by Malaysians to Palestine for the purpose of developing and liberating Al-Aqsa Mosque had not reached the intended target.

Wisma Putra said it also took note of the statements by civil society bodies that donations and assistance to Palestinians were channelled through their partners in Palestine.

“The Foreign Ministry supports and appreciates the good efforts made by Malaysian civil society bodies in providing various forms of assistance to the Palestinians including financial, food, medical, educational and others,” it said.

Wisma Putra said it had good relations with several bodies and had always facilitated and assisted their efforts in providing assistance to the Palestinians.

“The government and people of Malaysia strongly support the Palestinians’ struggle for freedom and independence.

“Malaysia will continue to provide humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people,” it said. – Bernama, February 20, 2020.