May 7, 2025

Malaysia strengthens checks on cattle imports from Thailand following anthrax outbreak near Thai-Laos border

Malaysia has tightened veterinary and biosecurity checks on live cattle imports from Thailand following an anthrax outbreak near the Thai-Laos border, ahead of Hari Raya Aidiladha festivities.

Kedah Veterinary Services Department (DVS) director Dr. Shaharul Akmar Talib said the outbreak occurred in Thailand's Mukdahan province, far from Malaysia, but precautionary measures have nonetheless been taken.

"Surveillance has been stepped up at ICQS (Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security) complexes. States have been alerted to remain vigilant, and at the federal level, the department is coordinating with Thai authorities," he told the New Straits Times on May 3.

"The last case occurred in 1968. If any cases were to emerge, they would be quarantined immediately," he said.

He said that Malaysia does not import raw meat from Thailand, but live cattle are brought in for slaughter.

"These animals are quarantined at designated centres in Kedah, Perlis, and Kelantan. All imports are screened by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis), which issues permits and enforces biosecurity protocols.

"Officers from Maqis and the department work jointly at entry points such as Bukit Kayu Hitam," he added.

He said that no import ban has been imposed for now, but an inter-agency meeting is expected to take place soon to review the situation.

- New Straits Times