The government is ready to discuss with the US over its concerns regarding allegations that funds were flowing to Iran and Hamas from Malaysia, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He also acknowledged that the issue had Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s attention and was briefly discussed during today’s cabinet meeting.
However, he said he could not divulge further details.
“(The) matter was briefly discussed in the meeting today, and because (the) discussion is ongoing, I won’t touch (on) too much detail,” he added.
Fahmi stressed that the government, along with its ministries and related agencies, is ready to engage with its US counterparts to better understand their concerns.
He also mentioned that this engagement will provide the government with a clear understanding of the issues raised by their American counterparts.
Asked if the government had met with US officials, Fahmi was coy, saying, “It was not expressly discussed when the meeting (was) held… we did discuss the principle (of it).”
While the government viewed the matter seriously, Fahmi reiterated that Malaysia is a sovereign country that complies with the United Nations sanctions.
“We comply with the UN sanctions, but when it comes to unilaterally applied sanctions, we have to assess the situation.
“But we will have this engagement, and I believe, consequently, the respective ministers will issue statements,” he added.
US Treasury officials’ visit
On May 3, Reuters reported that US Treasury officials would visit Malaysia amid allegations of increased funds flowing to Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, through the Malaysian financial system.
Quoting a source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Reuters said a top sanctions official from the US Treasury Department will visit Malaysia.
“Treasury undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence Brian Nelson is expected to discuss US’ concerns and the sanctions risk such activity poses, the source said. Treasury’s general counsel, Neil MacBride, will also be on the trip.
“The visit comes as the Treasury has increased its focus on terrorist financing through Southeast Asia, including through fundraising efforts and illicit Iranian oil sales, the source said,” read the report.
Saifuddin to meet Nelson
On a related matter, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that he would meet Nelson over the latter’s allegations tomorrow.
“I will meet him tomorrow morning, first to listen to whatever issue he wants to raise.
“After hearing their presentation, I will provide an official explanation regarding the issues raised,” he told reporters at Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia 2024 exhibitions at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibitions Centre in Kuala Lumpur today. - Mkini
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