Why is the proposed MAHB takeover facing criticism over its Israeli investment links?

Question

Accepted Answer

Criticism of the Proposed MAHB Takeover Amidst Israeli Investment Concerns

The proposed takeover of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) is facing criticism due to the involvement of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a consortium member that is reportedly owned by BlackRock, a firm with significant direct investments in Israel. This connection has raised concerns, particularly as companies within GIP's investment portfolio, such as Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and General Dynamics, are alleged to manufacture weapons and vehicles utilized in Israel's military operations.
Concerns Over GIP's Ownership and Investment Portfolio

Activists, including Chua Tian Chang and Perikatan Nasional’s Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal, have voiced strong opposition to the proposed MAHB takeover, specifically highlighting the link to GIP. They argue that GIP's ownership structure, tied to BlackRock, which has substantial investments in Israel, raises serious ethical and political questions. The memorandum handed over at the Ministry of Transport (MoT) in Putrajaya specifically pointed to companies like Lockheed Martin and Boeing within GIP's sphere of influence, which are reportedly involved in supplying military hardware potentially used in the conflict involving Palestine.
Government Response to Allegations

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has publicly dismissed the claims that a pro-Zionist fund would acquire a stake in MAHB as "baseless allegations." This response aims to counter the narrative that the takeover involves entities with direct ties to supporting Israel's military actions. The Prime Minister's statement suggests that the concerns are being misrepresented or exaggerated to incite public anger against the government.
Questions Regarding MAHB's Monopoly Status and Privatisation

Beyond the Israeli investment links, critics like Chua Tian Chang have also questioned the rationale behind privatising MAHB and its inherent monopoly status. He pointed out that MAHB, as the sole manager of Malaysian airports, operates as a monopoly. Chua questioned how this monopoly, previously justifiable under government ownership for oversight and price control, would prevent potential public hardship after privatisation. He suggested that true competition would require dividing airport management among different operators rather than simply transferring control to another entity.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why is the proposed MAHB takeover facing criticism over its Israeli investment links?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends