KUALA LUMPUR – The Customs Department in Perlis ordered a truck carrying a container marked with the ZIM logo to return to Thailand after discovering that the container originated from Israel.
In a statement, state Customs Director Ismail Hashim said that the incident took place at 12.03pm on June 2.
The truck, coming from the neighbouring country and carrying a container of frozen chicken, entered the scanner tunnel at the Road Trade Unit of the ICQS Complex in Padang Besar.
He said that during the image scanning process, the scanner operator identified that the container bore the ZIM logo, indicating it was from Israel.
The vehicle, along with its container and content, was immediately ordered to return to Thailand the same day, according to a Perlis Customs image dated June 5, 2024.
“The vehicle was detained for verification and further inspection,” Hashim said.
“Checks with relevant government agencies confirmed that containers with the ZIM logo are prohibited from entering Malaysia as they are believed to be owned by an Israel-based company.”
Hashim also called on the public to assist customs authorities in fighting smuggling activities and to refrain from participating in such illegal acts.
“Smuggling not only results in revenue losses for the country but also threatens national security and public well-being,” he added.
“We urge the public to cooperate by reporting any smuggling activities through the Customs toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855 or by contacting the nearest Customs Office.” – June 5, 2024