KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has confirmed that one of its seven commercial vessels previously stranded in the Strait of Hormuz has been granted safe passage, marking a breakthrough amid heightened regional tensions.
The Foreign Ministry, Wisma Putra, said the development was the result of sustained high-level diplomatic efforts. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a constructive call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 26, while Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan engaged his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi two days earlier.
“Malaysia remains firmly committed to the principle of freedom of navigation, safety and security of maritime passage, in accordance with international law,” the ministry said in a statement. It added that dialogue and diplomacy remain vital in addressing regional challenges and safeguarding peace.
The Iranian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur also confirmed the vessel’s passage on Monday, posting on X: “We had said that the Islamic Republic of Iran does not forget its friends.”
The vessel is now en route to its final destination, while six other Malaysian-owned ships remain in the area awaiting clearance. – March 7, 2026