Kuala lumpur: The government will implement several mitigation measures to ensure the country's port operations remain unaffected following the West Asia conflict and tensions involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which have disrupted maritime movement in the Strait of Hormuz. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the matter was discussed in a meeting this morning with port management, shipping companies, and national maritime industry authorities to plan immediate steps to address possible disruptions to the global logistics chain.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, with about one-fifth of global oil consumption passing through the narrow waterway each day. Loke noted that past experiences have shown such crises often lead to port congestion in the country as containers bound for conflict areas are left behind, affecting daily import and export operations and subsequently impacting factories.

As an initial measure, the government will facilitate the removal of empty containers from port areas to prevent congestion, while port management will carry out more thorough inspections. This move aims to ensure that containers with unclear destinations are not unloaded at the country's ports.

Loke further mentioned that the Ministry of Transport is aware of the fuel cost challenges faced by local ports and will collaborate with relevant parties to establish mechanisms to address this issue during times of crisis. Additionally, the government is working to assist Malaysian vessels stranded in West Asia due to the risk of attacks should they continue their voyages.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, 'In facing a national crisis, all stakeholders must work together and support one another to protect the nation's interests.'