March 20, 2025

Malaysia urged to tackle cattle smuggling along Thailand border

More than 70,000 heads of cattle were smuggled across the Malaysia-Thailand border over the past year, Malaysia's Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said.

He stated that the smuggling activities were detected in Kelantan, Kedah, Perlis, and Perak, significantly impacting local farmers. The influx of smuggled cattle has contributed to a drop in beef prices, raising concerns about the long-term effects on the domestic livestock industry.

"If this is not addressed immediately, local farmers, particularly in border states, will be affected," Mohamad said at a breaking of fast event with KPKM Inc staff on March 13, 2025. He emphasised that while the country's meat supply remains adequate, stricter enforcement is necessary to curb illegal cattle trade.

Mohamad highlighted that border security falls under the jurisdiction of other ministries, urging them to take decisive action to prevent further economic strain on local farmers. He stressed the importance of strengthening border control measures to mitigate risks, including the potential spread of unidentified animal diseases.

"The authorities must take stricter action because this effort not only protects the local farmers' economy but also ensures the safety of the domestic meat supply," he said.

The issue of livestock smuggling continues to be a pressing concern, with officials calling for more robust enforcement to safeguard the interests of Malaysia's cattle farmers and maintain market stability.

- The Star