January 19, 2004

Malaysia To Consider 6-Month Ban On Chicken Imports

Malaysia's Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Poultry Traders Association has proposed a ban on imported chicken for a period of at least six months, the association advisor Dr Lee Chong Meng said.

They can review the ban after that period.

"At present, some countries, like the United States, are allowed to export the birds into our country. However, we should call for a complete ban so that we don't become victims," Dr Lee said on Friday.

Health Minister Datuk Chua Jui Meng said that there was no Avian flu or bird flu virus in Malaysia, based on surveillance by the Institute of Medical Research.

Nevertheless, the Ministry would remain vigilant and work with the relevant departments, Chua said.
 

"The situation in Vietnam and Japan is of concern to us," Chua said.

The Cabinet had directed the relevant ministries to keep tabs on the situation.

Meanwhile, Dr Lee said the production of birds for local consumption has been sufficient since the fasting month last October.

Currently, some 30 million chickens are produced locally every month with local consumption at about one million birds.

"So why should we import the birds and take a risk? asked Dr Lee.

Besides, he said the price of chicken in the country was reasonable as it was below the government's ceiling price of RM6 a kilogram.