ISTANBUL: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday voiced Malaysia’s concern over the conflict in Gaza during a courtesy call on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Zahid said the meeting also discussed security and geopolitical developments in Syria and Lebanon, which continued to demand the international community’s serious attention.
“I conveyed Malaysia’s concern over the continuing conflict and its impact on regional stability, the safety of civilians and the humanitarian situation in affected areas.
“Malaysia’s position is clear. Efforts to achieve lasting peace must be founded on respect for national sovereignty, international law and humanitarian principles.
“We cannot compromise on protecting civilians or on ensuring aid reaches those who need it,” he said in a statement.
He also called on the international community to play a more effective role in easing tensions, ending the suffering of those affected by conflict and prioritising peaceful solutions through dialogue and diplomacy.
Zahid said he appreciated Turkiye’s commitment and role in championing security and justice internationally.
“I believe Malaysia and Turkiye have ample room to strengthen diplomatic understanding in addressing regional and international issues that have implications for global peace and stability,” he said.
The 30-minute meeting at the Istanbul Congress Centre followed the opening ceremony of the TRT World Forum 2026.
Zahid is in Türkiye for a four-day working visit at the invitation of the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) to attend the forum. He also took part in a panel session titled “Türkiye: From Regional Power to Multi-Regional Actor”.