Pastikan pelabuhan Malaysia tak disalah guna, kata pemerhati

Malaysia must safeguard its reputation as a trusted trade and shipping hub by ensuring the country's ports are not misused for dubious trade activities, warned maritime industry observer Jeyenderan Ramasamy. The government should conduct a thorough investigation into any company suspected of using Malaysian ports for such purposes, gathering evidence, identifying cargo involved, and taking legal action when necessary.

Malaysia should not dismiss concerns raised by international trade partners lightly, as any doubts about origin certificates or cargo control measures could harm domestic companies operating legitimately. Transshipment is not an offense; Malaysia is a major trading nation, and cargo must be allowed to pass through our ports. However, legitimate transshipment must be clearly distinguished from attempts to conceal the true origin of goods.

Concerns exist that goods may be brought in from countries with high tariffs imposed by the United States, either re-packaged or re-labeled, or simply processed minimally in Malaysia before export as products originating from this country. Changing labels or wrapping does not automatically make a product "Malaysian." Investigations should not focus solely on containers; they should also include parties behind the shipments such as importers, exporters, packers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and warehouse managers.

The Malaysia Customs Department (JKDM) should strengthen risk-based screening using data analysis, and increase information sharing with port authorities, shipping companies, and regulatory agencies to create a more comprehensive audit trail of cargo. Meanwhile, Ramasamy cautions authorities against penalizing legitimate packers, exporters, and logistics companies. If any company is found misusing our ports or free zones, identify and take action.