KUCHING – The Sarawak government is taking seriously the issue of smuggled meat in the country and has taken necessary steps to check its entry into the state, said Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs and Kuching North City Hall) Datuk Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
He said the state government supported whatever action was needed by the authorities, especially the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), to address the issue.
“The Sarawak government also supports the intention of the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to establish a Halal Legal and Enforcement Committee, which will comprise Jakim and the state Islamic Religious Department,” he said at a press conference here yesterday.
Fifteen reports had been lodged since Saturday on the case of frozen meat and forgery of documents believed to have been committed by a cartel warehouse in Senai, Johor.
Johor police chief Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said of the total, 13 were made by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, related to inspection and seizure reports.
Rahman called on relevant agencies, such as the state Veterinary Services Department and Royal Malaysian Customs Department, to further tighten the inspection of imported meat into Sarawak.
He said discussions had been held to establish an integrated action committee to conduct inspections on meat slaughtering premises.
“We have inspected several premises and will take certain actions, including seizing meat that is found to be non-halal.”
Sarawak Veterinary Services Department director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said the state has stopped imports of frozen chicken since November this year due to excess local production.
He said meat imports to Sarawak were only allowed from Australia, New Zealand and India. – Bernama, December 31, 2020
