NEW DELHI: As Muslims in Malaysia and Indonesia observe Ramadan, an increasingly prevalent consumer campaign against
Israeli dates
is gaining momentum. The campaign, spreading rapidly through chat groups, aims to alert consumers to the presence of Israeli dates in markets, fearing they are being sold to unknowing buyers in these predominantly Muslim countries, a South China Morning Post report said.
Government and consumer actions in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the situation has drawn government attention, leading to a raid on a warehouse in Klang Port, Selangor, where authorities confiscated 73 packs of
medjool dates
believed to have originated from Israel. "We view this issue seriously and will take strict action against those who mislead consumers," stated Armizan Mohd Ali, Malaysia's minister in charge of domestic trade and cost of living. This action reflects Malaysia's long-standing trade sanctions against Israel, emphasizing the country's strict regulatory measures against unauthorized imports.
Ahead of Ramadan, Malaysia's national newswire reminded citizens through social media to avoid purchasing boycotted goods, specifically mentioning dates from Israel, the West Bank, and Jordan Valley. This has led to a surge in social media campaigns within Malaysia, cautioning against unwittingly purchasing Israeli-sourced dates and promoting a broader boycott of products benefitting Israel.
Religious and social responses in Indonesia
The campaign has similarly resonated in Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country, where religious authorities have called for a boycott against Israeli dates. The Indonesian Council of Ulema (MUI) and Nadhatul Ulema, the country's largest Muslim mass organization, have issued statements urging Indonesians to avoid dates from Israel or the West Bank, labeling them as "haram" or forbidden.
Despite some vendors claiming a lack of business ties with Israeli companies, there remains a palpable concern among Indonesian consumers about inadvertently purchasing Israeli products. In response to religious injunctions, many are opting for clearly labeled dates, ensuring they are not supporting the Israeli market indirectly.
This collective movement in Malaysia and Indonesia represents a significant consumer stance during Ramadan, emphasizing solidarity with Palestine and a growing awareness of the origins of purchased goods.
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