Lorry Carrying Pest-Infested Cabbages Told To Turn Back To Singapore
The cabbages were found to be infested with live flea beetles.
By May Vin Ang — 21 Aug 2024, 05:31 PM
A lorry carrying long cabbages was instructed to turn back to Singapore after the vegetables were found to be infested with pests
According to the New Straits Times, the infestation was discovered during a routine inspection at the Sultan Abu Bakar Complex in Gelang Patah, Johor.
Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) officers halted the lorry, which was carrying 216 boxes of cabbages worth RM6,800 and weighing 2,160kg.
The cabbages were found to be infested with live flea beetles from the Phyllotreta genus.
Johor MAQIS director Edie Putra Md Yusof said it is an offence to import agricultural products contaminated with pests, diseases, or other harmful substances
The offence falls under Section 14(a) of the MAQIS Act 2011, where offenders could face a fine of up to RM100,000, up to six years in jail, or both.
However, he clarified that the consignment was only denied entry and instructed to be returned to its country of origin.
The director added that the department would continue monitoring the country's entry points to safeguard food security.
