Govt bans ships from Israel-based firm at Malaysia ports

PUTRAJAYA has banned ships from Israel-based company, ZIM, from docking in any Malaysia port, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

In a statement, Anwar said action will be taken to impose a permanent ban on the company, which takes effect immediately.

“These sanctions are in response to Israel's actions in violating the basic principles of humanity and breaking international law by killing innocent people and committing atrocities against Palestinians,” he said.

The government in 2002 had allowed ships from the company to dock in Malaysia and the permission was extended again in 2005.

Anwar also emphasised that any ships bearing the Israel flag will not be allowed to dock in Malaysia ports.

The ban is also imposed on any ship on its journey to Israel.

“Any ship that flies the flag of Israel will not be allowed to dock in Malaysia. Any ship that is on its way to Israel will also not be allowed to stop in Malaysia to load its cargo.

“Both of these restrictions are effective immediately,” the prime minister said.

In October, Anwar revealed that the US had objected to Malaysia's stance over Palestine.

In a parliament session, the Tambun MP said the US dmbassy in Kuala Lumpur sent two demarches, or diplomatic notices, to the Foreign Ministry.

He added that Malaysia’s ambassador in Washington was also summoned by the US State Department over the issue.

He said Washington wanted Kuala Lumpur to change its stance, which seeks a two-state solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict.

Addressing a pro-Palestine event last week, Anwar said Malaysia had received threats over its solidarity with and support for Palestine. – The Malaysian Insight, December 20, 2023.