ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis), in collaboration with the Customs Department, successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle four barrels containing raw sea cucumbers into Malaysia at the Sultan Abu Bakar Complex, here.
Maqis Johor director Edie Putra Md Yusof said that a joint inspection conducted by Customs officers and Maqis enforcement personnel at 5.06pm on Sunday (Jan 26) uncovered approximately 200 packets of raw sea cucumbers weighing a total of 120 kilograms.
“The items, estimated to be worth RM12,000, were found in the rear section of a vehicle attempting to enter the country via the light vehicle passenger lane without a valid Maqis import permit.
“Further investigation revealed that the raw sea cucumbers were brought in without any accompanying documentation.
“The driver and vehicle involved were detained for further action,” he said in a statement on Monday (Jan 27).
The case is being investigated under Section 11(1) of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728) for importing any agricultural products without a valid Maqis import permit.
Those convicted may face a fine not exceeding RM100,000, imprisonment for up to six years, or both under Section 11(3) of the same Act.
Maqis reaffirmed its commitment to strict enforcement at entry points to ensure the safety of agricultural imports and compliance with government regulations.
