Malaysia thwarts buffalo meat import with misleading halal certificate
An attempt to import approximately 740 kilograms of buffalo meat valued at US$2,800 was thwarted by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Service Department (Maqis) at Pasir Gudang Port. The meat, originating from India, was discovered in 37 boxes during an inspection.
Upon further examination, Maqis officers found discrepancies between the information on the halal certificate and the actual details of the buffalo meat, such as slaughter, manufacturing and expiry dates, as well as importer names. These inconsistencies are considered an offence under Section 13 of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728) for providing misleading certificates or other documents.
As part of the investigation, a local shipping agent in his 30s had his statement recorded by Maqis officers before being released. If convicted under Section 13 of the Act, the individual could face a maximum fine of US$12,000, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
Johor Maqis director, Edie Putra Md Yusof, emphasised the department’s commitment to enforcing regulations at the nation’s entry points. This is to ensure that agricultural products entering Malaysia comply with the conditions and rules set by the government.
