MIRI – Sarawak authorities have enhanced security checks at the mountainous border with Kalimantan to prevent livestock smuggling during the Aidiladha period.
Sarawak’s ban on livestock from Kalimantan has been in force since last July due to the foot and mouth disease among cattle but the Muslim festival may see more animals smuggled in for sacrificial purposes.
The state’s Deputy Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Abdul Rahman Ismail said today that border enforcement checks are currently enhanced and instructed the Veterinary Department to be vigilant.
Abdul Rahman was presenting sacrificial meat to needy families in Limbang mosque today.
Sarawak’s Agriculture Modernisation and Regional Development Ministry has said that foot and mouth disease among cattle in Kalimantan was still prevalent, especially in the western regions.
There are many illegal crossings along the mountain range and rivers, which smugglers have used to move goods, animals and meat into Sarawak.
Smuggled goods and animals are usually sold to those living in the plantations and logging zones in the interior. – The Vibes, June 30, 2023
