Kuala lumpur: Protecting humanitarian workers and ensuring access for humanitarian missions is not merely a moral imperative but an obligation under international humanitarian law. Global Peace Mission (GPM) Malaysia chief executive officer Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin stated that parties to a conflict are duty-bound to respect and protect humanitarian workers, as well as allow and facilitate the delivery of aid to civilians in need.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Fahmi emphasized that this principle must be upheld consistently, regardless of the parties involved or the location of the conflict. He pointed out that the responsibility does not rest solely with those on the battlefield. Nations and actors influencing the course of a conflict, through funding, arms supplies, or political and military support, must ensure their contributions do not lead to serious violations against civilians and humanitarian workers.

Ahmad Fahmi, who is also the president of the Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM), highlighted that violations against civilians, humanitarian workers, health personnel, and protected facilities must be independently investigated, with those responsible brought to justice. He remarked, "Protection cannot exist merely in statements, conventions, and resolutions. It must be genuinely felt on the ground by those who risk their own safety to save the lives of others."

Citing United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, Ahmad Fahmi noted that more than 1,000 humanitarian workers were killed between 2023 and 2025. He stressed that threats to the safety of humanitarian workers could halt relief operations, depriving communities of access to essential services such as food, water, and medical treatment.

Ahmad Fahmi further stated that while many international humanitarian operations exist, local workers form the backbone of relief efforts. He explained, "They are not merely implementers; they bring local knowledge, community trust, and networks that often determine whether aid truly reaches those in need. In Gaza, this reality is far more harrowing."

He elaborated that field workers in Gaza cannot simply leave the conflict zone after completing their duties because it is their home. They assist families who have lost their homes even as their own homes and families face similar threats, ensuring that food, water, and aid reach others while grappling with the same shortages, losses, and uncertainty.

In conjunction with World Humanitarian Day 2026, observed today, Ahmad Fahmi urged that humanitarian workers not be made targets, stressing that their presence is intended to assist when it is most needed and that they have the right to return home safely.