NILAI – In a poignant moment at the 21st Convocation Ceremony of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), His Excellency Walid A. M. Abu Ali, the Palestinian Ambassador, stood in to accept Posthumous Degrees on behalf of two fallen USIM graduates. The recipients, Mohammed J. H. Alzaanin, Doctor of Philosophy (Human Resource Management), and his wife, Kholoud M. H. Elzaneen, Master of Science (Research Mode) from the Faculty of Science and Technology, were tragically killed in a Zionist attack in Gaza, Palestine.
The solemn ceremony, attended by distinguished guests and led by the Chancellor of USIM, Her Majesty Tuanku Ampuan Besar Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud, saw the Ambassador graciously receive the posthumous degrees on behalf of the bereaved couple.
The devastating attack, which occurred on October 8, 2023, claimed the lives of Mohammed and Kholoud in their village in Bait Hanon. Tragically, three of their children also lost their lives, while Mohammed’s son, Jamil Mohammed, was confirmed to be safe.
Expressing gratitude, Ambassador Walid remarked on the honor bestowed upon the late graduates, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of the occasion. He lamented that Mohammed and Kholoud should have been celebrating their successful graduation day instead, highlighting the cruel reality of their sacrifice. The Ambassador expressed hope for continued support and solidarity from the people and the Government of Malaysia for the Palestinian community affected by the ongoing conflict with the Zionist regime.
This heartfelt ceremony serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of geopolitical conflicts, bringing together communities in grief while emphasizing the importance of international solidarity in times of tragedy.