Malaysia in talks with Iran to lift restrictions on 2 tankers

 The two Malaysian-owned vessels faced restrictions after exiting the Strait of Hormuz despite initially obtaining Tehran's clearance.

One more Malaysian ship is still at port in the Strait of Hormuz, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. (EPA Images pic)

JOHOR BAHRU:

 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, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the move was taken following restrictions faced by the vessels despite clearance having been granted by the Iranian government, particularly 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) are still facing several restrictions.

“So, we are negotiating because the approval had, in fact, already been given,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers at Masjid Bandar Permas Jaya here.

Present were Johor menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Karim.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said one more Malaysian ship was 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. - FMT