Malaysia’s first act as United Nations Security Council member must be to condemn Israel for a recent attack which claimed the life of a Palestinian minister, PKR’s Alor Setar MP Gooi Hsiao Leong.

Ziad Abu Ein reportedly died during confrontation with Israeli security forces during a protest at the troubled West Bank region.

"I call upon Putrajaya to make it their first act of duty when we assume our seat in the United Nations Security Council in January to condemn the unprovoked attack by the Isreali security forces against Palestinian protestors," Gooi said in a statement today.

"PKR condemns the brutal attack against peaceful protestors who had merely wanted to plant olive trees as a symbolic protest against Isreali occupation of the disputed territories.”

He said that the attack was unwarranted and unjustified.

"We hope an independent investigation will be carried out immediately and quickly to identify those in the Isreali security forces responsible for the brutal attack against the protestors and that they be held accountable for Abu Ein's death," he said.

Palestination medics told the BBC Abu Ein died from complications related to tear gas exposure. 

But witnesses also said the minister was hit and shoved by soldiers.

Another witness said he was hit in the chest by a tear-gas canister.

Malaysia has no diplomatic ties with Israel and has been vocal against Israeli occupation of the Palestinian West Bank.