KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has no control of the trade practices of international multinational companies (MNCs), some of which may involve Israel, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
In a Parliamentary written reply, the Foreign Minister said in terms of trade, the approval of import licences for goods originating from Israel and the export of goods to Israel is subject to the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2012 and the Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 2012.
"However, there are multinational companies (MNCs) that invest and operate worldwide, including in Malaysia, as part of a global supply chain network, with proper authorisation.
"Many countries, including Israel, are also part of this network. The trade practices of these MNCs are beyond the control of the government," he said in reply to a question from Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee (PN–Beluran), who had asked about follow-up measures after the Prime Minister's call at the Arab–Islamic Summit in Doha for punitive action against Israel.
Kiandee also enquired whether the call included cutting indirect ties between Malaysian entities and Israel through technology supply chains, third-party trade, or cooperation in the security and cyber sectors.
Mohamad said Malaysia's foreign policy was clear, highlighting that our country has no diplomatic relations with Israel.
"This policy remains consistent, and the government will not establish any economic ties with Israel.
"Following Israel's attacks on Gaza in 2014, the government decided on July 20, 2014 that the then International Trade and Industry Ministry would suspend the issuance of import and export licences to Israel for all local companies, except for multinational corporations," he said.
However, Mohamad said the government will continue to monitor the trade situation to ensure alignment with the government’s stance on the Palestinian issue and developments in the Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations.
At the international level, Mohamad said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, together with leaders of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the Extraordinary Arab–Islamic Summit, unanimously condemned Israel's ongoing military actions and atrocities, calling for Israel to be held accountable on the global stage.
"In his address, the Prime Minister emphasised that Israel's actions, which clearly violate international law, the UN Charter, and universal humanitarian principles, cannot be tolerated.
"The PM also urged the international community to consider punitive measures, including diplomatic efforts and economic sanctions,to pressure Israel into halting its blatant violations of international law," he said.
Mohamad added that Malaysia continued to believe in collective efforts with OIC member states, the Arab League, and other international organisations to ensure that Israel's unlawful actions are met with firm and effective responses.
He said Malaysia also remained committed to supporting efforts to bring Israel to justice before international judicial bodies.
