JOHOR BARU: The Transport Ministry should monitor all ports nationwide to prevent Israeli vessels from docking in the country, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister once again stressed the government’s stance of no diplomatic or trade ties with Israel and that there would be no compromise in the matter.
“I hope the Transport Ministry can continuously monitor all ports to prevent a repeat of the issue of ships from Israel docking in our ports,” he said in a press conference after launching the Halal on Track programme at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre here on Tuesday (June 4).
He was asked about updates regarding the alleged presence of a container bearing the logo of the Israel-based shipping company Zim at a port in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
At a programme in Bagan Datuk on Sunday (June 1), Ahmad Zahid said the investigation into the incident needs to be expedited.
The incident came to light when Kota Iskandar assemblyman Datuk Pandak Ahmad reportedly said he received a report claiming that the port allowed a ship with containers from Israel to dock there.
In December last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the government would no longer accept ships flying the Israeli flag into the country with immediate effect and prohibit any ship en route to Israel from loading cargo at Malaysian ports.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said the halal certificate application period should be further shortened to 15 working days from the current 23 days.
“I now challenge Jakim to complete the approval process in 15 working days from the date of application.
“This includes conducting all the due process and inspections required for the certification,” he said, adding that the shorter approval period might pressure Jakim. Still, he believes that they would be able to meet the challenge.
