KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s decision to prohibit Israeli-owned ships from entering the country is a strong and resolute move to place pressure on the regime to cease its human rights violations against Palestinians.
According to Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Nazari Ismail, the director of Hashim Sani Centre for Palestine Studies at Universiti Malaya, the ban reflects the country’s spirit and courage and signals the government’s clear opposition to the violence and brutality of the Zionist regime.
He also stated that Malaysia’s bold step will have a significant and ongoing impact on Israel’s economy, particularly in its maritime economy and logistics services.
“This impact will be even greater on Israel’s economy if Arab countries and other Muslim nations also follow Malaysia’s lead. Other countries, including those in the Asean region, should also prohibit Israeli ships from entering their territories,” he told Bernama on Wednesday (Dec 20).
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had declared earlier that ships from an Israeli shipping cargo company, as well as those en route to Israel or hoisting Israel’s flag, will be prohibited from entering or loading cargo at Malaysian ports with immediate effect.
Mohd Nazari, who also chairs the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Malaysia (BDS Malaysia) movement, suggested additional restrictions, such as prohibiting the awarding of contracts to international companies that support or contribute to Israel’s economy.
“BDS Malaysia also urges individuals and organizations, both in the private and public sectors, to continue boycotting products and businesses that facilitate the perpetuation of apartheid and oppression against the Palestinian people,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prof Dr Mohd Roslan Mohd Nor, the secretary-general of the Ulama Association of Malaysia (PUM), expressed support for the ban, stating that it was the right decision to express the country’s solidarity with the Palestinian people.
He emphasized the necessity of taking a firm stance, particularly during Israel’s ongoing military offensive against Gaza.
“Malaysian leaders’ firm stance against Israel’s tyranny from the past until now is highly appreciated and something that should be respected by all,” he said in a statement. – Bernama
