However, the prime minister fell short of calling for Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s resignation.
“We (Malaysian government) want both sides to not resort to any form of violence and there not be any casualties as the people only want to show where they stand regarding the leadership of the Egyptian government.
“In a democratic system, we must prioritise the people and that is why any solution in Egypt must be based on demands and wants of the people to determine the future of their government,” he told reporters after a Chinese New Year party.
He also said foreign nations should not intervene in the popular revolt.
The Egyptian uprising broke out last week due to public frustration with corruption, oppression and economic hardship under Mubarak’s 30-year reign. It has been reported that at least 140 protesters have been killed in demonstrations across the country.
Earlier today, it was reported that Mubarak supporters opened fire on protesters camped in Cairo’s Tahrir Square.
The protests are part of the regional uprising inspired by the popular revolt in Tunisia which overthrew President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali last month.
Najib said the regional uprising should be a lesson to world leaders that in the era of globalisation, the voice of the people should not be ignored.
An informal coalition of political parties and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) will march to the US Embassy tomorrow to show solidarity with the Egyptians in their struggle for freedom and democracy.
The coalition, led by Pakatan Rakyat, expects more than 10,000 people to gather to urge the US government to intervene and join the call for Mubarak’s resignation.
