THE Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry has seized 146 tonnes of frozen meat products that were illegally brought into the country this year, so far.

Minister Ronald Kiandee said the seizures were worth RM2.33 million, adding that Kelantan is the state with the most seizures at 74 tonnes worth RM692,838.

“The seizures were made under the forfeiture process for offences under Subsections 11(1) and 15(1) of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728).

“The products will be disposed of as food supply donations to six agencies and departments. They – 11 tonnes worth RM106,000 – are forfeitures from cases between September and October.”

He said the seizures will be turned into catfish fodder under a prisoner rehabilitation project and food for animals in zoos, including Zoo Negara, and wildlife conservation centres.

He said he hopes that this initiative will help reduce the burden of those involved in maintaining the food supply for animals and fish under their supervision. – Bernama, October 26, 2021.