Border agency foils attempt to import Thai produce without permits, haul worth RM96,068 this year.

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) foiled an attempt to bring in 2.09 tonnes of agricultural produce from Thailand without valid import permits during an enforcement operation at the Rantau Panjang entry point yesterday.

In a statement, today, MCBA said the seized consignment – valued at RM17,403 – comprised of ginger, galangal, cabbage, Chinese potato, bananas, limes and lemongrass.

The agency said the offence involved importing agricultural goods without a Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (Maqis) Import Permit under Section 11(1) of the Maqis Act 2011 (Act 728).

The latest seizure brings MCBA Rantau Panjang’s total seizures involving various goods and offences to RM96,068 as of Feb 15 this year under the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency Act 2024 (Act 860) and related laws.

“MCBA stressed its continued commitment to ensuring food safety, legal compliance and the protection of consumer interests, particularly at the country’s border entry points.

“Close cooperation with core agencies will continue to be strengthened to curb any attempts to bring in goods that do not comply with the stipulated regulations,” it said.

The border agency advised the public and industry players to ensure all import documentation (particularly those related to halal certification food safety) is complete and valid.

 The Sun Malaysia