KUCHING: The Sarawak Veterinary Services Department will ban all imports of pigs and pig products from countries affected by the African Swine Flu (ASF).
Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister for Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development, said in a press statement here on Tuesday (Jan 11) the ministry would also declare Durin in Sibu as an ASF affected area.
“This order is in accordance with Section 35 (1) of the Public Health Vetenirary Ordinance 1999,” he said, adding that ASF was not zoonotic as it didnot affect humans.
“We will also closely monitor and will conduct surveillance on the ASF outbreak in Sarawak and will also have awareness campaign for the public and pig breeders and sellers,” Dr Rundi said, describing some of the measures taken.
He stressed that a movement permit was required to transport the pigs or pork products including wild boars as a precautionary measure to control the spread of the disease including selling online and by post.
Rundi added that those caught importing pigs or products without import permits could be fined RM50,000 or jailed not more than two years or both.
He reassured that the present pork meat and products sold in the market were safe for consumption as they were not from the affected area.
He also urged the pig breeders and sellers to keep strict cleanliness and good hygiene.
“If there is any unusual number of deaths of pigs in their live stocks, the pig breeders can WhatsApp the Veterinary department at 016 284 0918.
