KUALA LUMPUR – The government’s condemnation of the import ban imposed by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency on Sime Darby Plantation Bhd (SDP) is being backed by industry players.
On January 31, Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin had criticised the US import ban, calling the move “rash and unfounded” since SDP is in the midst of handing over a comprehensive report to US authorities.
Speaking to The Vibes, Incorporated Society of Planters (ISP) chairman Datuk Daud Amatzin expressed his support for the minister’s stand, claiming that Zuraida is simply carrying out her duty as a minister in defending the nation’s dignity.
“As the plantation industries and commodities minister, she (Zuraida) is duty-bound. As an independent sovereign nation, Malaysia cannot be bullied by the US via its authorities or agents.
“We cannot allow the nation to be accused of wrongdoing simply based on suspicion. Natural justice must be conducted, as is the universal rule of law,” he said, further informing The Vibes that he had earlier today spoken with Zuraida regarding the matter above.
Daud, who is also International Institute of Plantation Management deputy president, added fuel to fire by alleging that the US’ targeting of government-linked companies is a “strategic attempt to attack Malaysia’s reputation and goodwill.”
“In terms of trading value, the export of palm oil-related products is not big to the US but their constant targeting against our nation is strong despite lacking in evidence,” he said, adding that about 5,000 active ISP members are concerned over the insistent “attacks”.
Meanwhile, The Vibes also reached out to SDP chief communication officer Leela Barrock, who stated that the company intends to submit a completed report to the CBP sometime in March this year.
“The process of producing the report is completely independent and the company does not get involved in any way,” she said.
Declining to further comment on the matter prior to the submission of the report, Leela said that SDP is confident in the findings of the report and will continue to remain transparent with the public. – The Vibes, February 2, 2022
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