March 14, 2024

Malaysian authorities seize 25 tonnes of pork belly over import permit violations

In Johor, Malaysia, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis) seized 25 tonnes of pork belly valued at MYR 400,000 (US$85,300), due to violations of import permits, The Star reported.

According to Johor Maqis director Edie Putra Md Yusof, the meat was confiscated during an inspection of a container at the Pasir Gudang Port's import bay.

He said Maqis discovered that the consignment did not adhere to the import terms, as each pack of meat lacked a label, during their routine inspection.

He explained that the import conditions stipulated that each package of meat must include the dates of slaughter and the name, address, and number of the meat processing plant.

Failure to comply with Maqis' import permit conditions constitutes an offense under Section 15(1) of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011, punishable under Section 15(2) of the same Act.

He said a person found guilty could face a fine of up to MYR 100,000 (US$21,300), imprisonment for a maximum of six years, or both.

Edie Putra said that Maqis would maintain vigilance over the state's entry and exit points to uphold the country's food security, ensuring that imported agricultural products meet safety standards and legal requirements.

-      The Star