Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said authorities in Gaza do not require a large influx of foreign volunteers but rather urgent supplies of medicine, food and other basic necessities.

He said this message had been conveyed to NGO leaders involved in the second wave of humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza via Egypt’s land route.

“What they really need are medicines, food and basic necessities. There’s no need for a large number of us to go there.

“They’ve mentioned that they already have enough personnel — doctors, engineers and so on.

“So I’ve reminded the NGOs that want to help to focus on preparations here. Don’t insist on going there.

“I’ve seen thousands registering to go and that’s just not feasible given the situation in Gaza,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Surau Jannatul Firdaus, PPAM Seruling.

Anwar was commenting on his recent meeting with humanitarian NGOs to coordinate and determine the most effective way to channel aid to Gaza.

He also advised NGOs to source supplies from areas near Gaza, saying it would be cheaper and more practical than sending large shipments directly from Malaysia.

The prime minister added that he would speak with Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on the matter tomorrow.

“He will be calling me at around 2pm tomorrow and I will share some suggestions with him to ensure that when the Rafah crossing is opened, humanitarian aid can enter smoothly in accordance with the established regulations,” Anwar said.