More than 50 people joined the vigil, lighting candles and carrying placards calling for “Peace for Ukraine” and “Hands off Ukraine”.
Yulia Rybak, a Ukrainian living in Malaysia for the past five years, said she was grateful and thankful that many Malaysians had come out to support the vigil.
“This means so much to us. It really matters to see people who are not from Ukraine coming together to voice their support and understand the meaning of democracy, freedom, and human lives.
“Every post that you share, all the kind words, (Malaysians) coming to the vigil or demonstrations and signing petitions. Thank you so much,” she told FMT.
The intensive Russian military attack on Ukraine has led to more than half a million fleeing the country, and hundreds of deaths, many of them civilians according to media reports.
Rybak said she’s been trying to stay in touch with her family every day. “Even when I’m asleep, I ask my family to text me so that when I wake up I can see that they’re fine and have not been shelled when I’m asleep at night.
“They’re currently in Kyiv, living at home. Two days ago, my dad celebrated his birthday in the basement. It was so sad and heartbreaking for me to wish him peace,” she lamented.
Call for Malaysian sanctions
Rybak urged the Malaysian government to recognise what is happening in Ukraine and call it a war, instead of a crisis adding that they should also follow the rest of the world and impose economic sanctions against Russia.
Irina Bronovytska said she was very appreciative to see so many Malaysians coming out to support them adding that the police were also very supportive and patient.
“We come in peace. That is the only thing we want. My parents and siblings who are both only 10 years old are heading right now to the Poland border for safety. This shouldn’t happen in the 21st century. Russia needs to stop the war,” she said.
Bronovytska said she had friends in Ukraine who had already lost their mothers and siblings adding that she is constantly checking up on her family and hoping that no Russian troops are near them.
Irina Westwood, a Russian who attended the vigil, pointed out that this invasion by Russia was an all-out war and not a “special operation”, a term the country is using.
“This is a one-person war. A lot of Russians don’t support this because they have Ukrainian roots. They are well connected and close. This is very sad and what’s happening right now is shameful,” she said.
When asked what she would like to say to the Ukrainians, Irina said: “I love you, glory to Ukraine.”