Minister Backs Seizure of Israeli-Linked Military Cargo at Port of Tanjung Pelepas

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 — Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan has commended the government’s swift seizure of a container carrying suspected military cargo linked to the Israeli regime at the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) in Johor.

Expressing full support for the enforcement action taken by the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), Zulkifli stated that preventing logistical support to the Israeli regime aligns directly with Islamic principles and national sovereignty.

“This action is in line with religious obligations and the principles of Maqasid Syariah (Hifz an-Nafs) to protect lives and ensure that the nation’s sovereignty is not exploited by the illegal regime,” Zulkifli said in a statement today.

He urged all Malaysians to give their full backing to the government’s firm stance in solidarity with Palestine, adding that any attempt to smuggle military support cargo to Israel will be opposed.

The enforcement action took place on Aug 7 when AKPS detained and inspected the container at PTP on suspicion of transporting goods intended for export to Israel. The shipment is suspected of contravening Item 15 of the Second Schedule of the Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 2023, which prohibits the direct or indirect export of goods to Israel in line with official Malaysian government policy.

Following the seizure, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed his appreciation to AKPS for its prompt and decisive action in impounding the container.

–NMT