The United Nations Security Council’s condemnation of Israel’s illegal settlement in the West Bank and Eastern Jerusalem is a huge recognition of what we have been protesting all these while.

Although the United States only abstained in the voting, it is a very significant move as it had always vetoed similar resolutions before. Congratulations to the Barack Obama administration for finally having gathered enough courage to stand up against the Israeli government.

However what does it mean in the context of the future of the illegal settlements on Palestinian land ? Sadly , it is just a symbolic departing gesture from outgoing Obama and perhaps a consolation in the view of the incoming Donald Trump as the new US president. For those expecting a shift in US policy, it is just a false dawn. We can expect a worsening scenario after this. After all, Trump has already indicated his various very pro-Israel views.

For all those who oppose the oppression of the minorities like the Palestinians, we have to work extremely hard to stop the spread of more illegal settlements on Palestinian land. Not only new Israeli illegal settlements are spreading, existing and old Palestinian homes are being demolished by Israeli authorities. The helpless Palestinians needs the world’s continuous support and help.

Malaysia should also have to redouble its effort in the UN Security Council to handle a much more pro-Israel government of America headed by President Trump. In order to gain more credibility, the Malaysian government should also treat its own minorities with the respect and fairness that citizens of the nation is entitled to.

This is especially applicable to the present Orang Asli community predicaments today. The plight of the aborigines of Australia and the Red Indians of America have made controversial international news and we hope our Orang Asli’s situation would not make sensational world headlines, too.

In the meantime we welcome the landmark UN Security Council resolution on Palestinian land issues and hope it will continue to gain more support and success. All oppressed minorities deserve the international community’s attention, none more than the long-suffering and abused Palestinians.

M'sia's outgoing UN envoy: UNSC vote against Israeli settlements 'crowning experience'

RAJA KAMARUL BAHRIN SHAH RAJA AHMAD is MP for Kuala Terngganu and Amanah’s International Bureau chairperson.