JOHOR BARU: The government is in talks with Iran to ensure that two Malaysian-owned tankers carrying fuel are allowed to pass after exiting the Strait of Hormuz, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the move was taken following restrictions faced by the vessels despite clearance being granted earlier by the Iranian government, including by its president.
"One vessel has already arrived (in Pengerang, Johor), while another is close and is entering Malaysian waters.
"However, two vessels that have already exited (the Strait of Hormuz) are still facing several restrictions.
"So, we are negotiating because the approval had in fact already been given," he told reporters after prayers at Masjid Bandar Permas Jaya here on Friday (April 24).
Also present were Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim.
Commenting on the status of other vessels reported to be stranded, Anwar said there is one more ship still at port in the Strait of Hormuz.
"One more vessel is still stranded there due to technical damage, which has prevented it from departing for now," he said.
Earlier, the media reported that five Malaysian vessels were stranded in the strait following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. – Bernama
