KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has recorded another milestone in its efforts to strengthen food security and the halal ecosystem with the official introduction of turkey from Russia, certified halal by the Islamic Development Malaysia Department, into the local market.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the entry of halal Russian turkey reflects Malaysia's continued commitment to diversifying the country's protein sources, while ensuring strict compliance with halal standards, food safety and quality.
He said the initiative also marks strong bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and Russia to enhance food trade, halal certification, and supply chain resilience.
"The import of turkey from Russia is carried out in full compliance with Malaysia's import entry requirements, including the recognition of the Penza Region as a zone free from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)," he said.
Mohamad said this when met at the halal Russian turkey introduction event themed 'From Russia With Love' held here on Tuesday (Dec 23).
With the introduction, Mohamad said the pledge made during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Russia in May, that Russian turkey would be available in the Malaysian market in time for this year's festive season, has now been fulfilled.
"Malaysians can now enjoy halal, safe and high-quality turkey, whether for festive celebrations or as part of their daily meals," he said.
The event, which was officiated by Mohamad and attended by the Ambassador of Russia to Malaysia, Naiyl M. Latypov, underscores the importance of strategic cooperation between the two countries in the food and halal sectors.
Malaysia-Russia trade is estimated to reach about US$3bil annually, while bilateral trade in the agro-food sector stood at RM2.5bil as of September this year. – Bernama
