Import of meat into country not under DVS' jurisdiction

PUTRAJAYA: The import or entry of meat into the country, whether through smuggling or leakage at the country's checkpoints, is outside the jurisdiction of the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).

A statement issued by DVS today stated that it is only responsible for conducting audit checks at abattoirs overseas for the purpose of export approval to Malaysia in accordance with the stipulated standard operating procedures (SOP).

The statement was issued following a report in a local newspaper which said the government should ensure that DVS, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department are completely free of moles or insider threats to avoid another meat import cartels.

According to DVS, inspections of abattoirs abroad are carried out based on standard codes of practice in accordance with international standards, covering animal and zoonotic disease control standards as well as the operation of abattoirs.

"Approval for meat import is only allowed from countries and slaughterhouses that have been approved and meet the stipulated conditions," it said.

-- BERNAMA