PUTRAJAYA – The ban on Israeli shipping company ZIM from docking its ships at any Malaysian ports will not affect Malaysia’s diplomatic standing with other countries, according to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
He said the move was the appropriate response to condemn Israel’s continuous bombing and atrocities in Gaza.
“Our statement was banning ships using Israel’s flags to anchor in Malaysia and we don’t allow any transshipment of other countries’ loads to Israel.
“This is a clear and firm stance (because of what is happening in Gaza) and it is not because we don’t appreciate our relationship with other countries,” he said during a press conference at the Foreign Ministry.
Today, Mohamad, also known as Tok Mat, officially clocked into the ministry.
Responding to reporters, he said his re-appointment as foreign minister will not change Malaysia’s stance in supporting Palestine.
“There’s no such thing when I come to Wisma Putra (Foreign Ministry) and there will not be a change in the country’s stance (in the Israel-Palestine war).
“Malaysia’s stance will remain as we stated. Malaysia’s stance on this issue is well known internationally,” he said.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that effective immediately the government would ban ZIM from anchoring in any ports in the country.
Yesterday, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the Israel-affiliated shipping company has to manage its 4,000 containers remaining in Port Klang on its own.
Meanwhile, elaborating on the Foreign Ministry’s focus and priorities under his leadership, Tok Mat said his mission is to continue strengthening Malaysia’s relationships with other countries.
“A big responsibility awaits everyone in Wisma Putra which is the crucial party between Malaysia and other countries with the best methods while remaining with our principles as a neutral-country, friendly-nation and country which wants peace.
“This includes enhancing existing relationships like ( therecent official visit by the prime minister), where Malaysia and Japan had strengthened its relationship to comprehensive strategic partnership,” he added. – December 22, 2023