KOTA BARU: The demolition of illegal jetties along the Malaysia-Thailand border in Kelantan will help the government control the entry of livestock and agricultural produce, says Agriculture and Food Security Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak (pic).
He said the effort not only ensures food security but also safeguards the country’s food safety, Bernama reported.
“The collaboration between the ministry, police, the National Security Council and other agencies under the whole-of-government approach has shown positive results to curb smuggling activities.
“Encroachment and smuggling activities at illegal landing points along the Kelantan border pose a major threat to the nation’s food biosecurity,” he told reporters after officiating the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority Excellent Service Awards ceremony here yesterday.
Isham said cattle brought in illegally from Thailand risk carrying dangerous diseases such as rabies, which could affect the local livestock industry.
He added that the uncontrolled entry of livestock could pose a serious threat to national food biosecurity, as diseases can spread rapidly and harm local farming operations.
“Many companies have invested substantial amounts to develop feedlot farms and breeding centres for beef and dairy cattle in this country. Therefore, we want to protect this industry from disease threats arising from smuggling activities,” he said.
Kelantan police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat was reported as saying that all 223 illegal jetties, including privately-owned ones used for smuggling along Sungai Golok, are expected to be completely demolished within two months.
Comm Mohd Yusoff said the project marks an initial step towards implementing comprehensive security control reforms along the Malaysia-Thailand border, particularly in Kelantan.
