THE Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Ministry is currently in the final stage of preparing the necessary paperwork for the establishment of the Sarawak Quarantine and Inspection Services (SAQIS) Department.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi said this includes the draft ordinance that will underpin SAQIS’ operations.
“Our goal is to secure approval for this department by next year, and we hope that the ordinance can be debated in this House during the same period,” he said.
He said this when delivering his ministerial winding-up speech on Tuesday.
Dr Rundi earlier said his ministry is taking significant steps to prevent the spread of foreign pests and diseases into Sarawak by enhancing its biosecurity measures.