PETALING JAYA: The market for imported bird's nests that have undergone strict inspection and quarantine should be opened up to curb smuggling, says Pertubuhan Perkilangan Pemprosesan Sarang Burung Walit Malaysia (PPPSBWM).
Its president Chia Yong Jia said that by establishing proper channels, the industry could effectively dismantle illegal smuggling and curb such issues at the source.
"Unregulated imports lack official oversight, are from unverified origins and offer no quality guarantees.
"Such products are prone to adulteration, posing severe food safety risks that not only disrupt the local market but also jeopardise the premium reputation Malaysia's bird's nest industry has built over decades," he said in a statement on Tuesday (May 5).
He said the proposal was also raised during a meeting with the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry and Veterinary Services Department.
"Department officials viewed this proposal highly, acknowledging its feasibility. It also committed to further in-depth discussions on its implementation and regulatory framework," he said.
Chia also outlined a long-term vision to establish Malaysia as an international bird's nest distribution and processing hub. Also proposed was active communication with Chinese authorities to seek facilitation policies.
"A key proposal involves allowing Chinese tourists visiting Malaysia to take home not more than 1kg of compliant, processed bird's nest.
"This initiative aims to further deepen the trade and cultural tourism partnership between the two nations," he said.
