SERDANG: Malaysia is still considering whether to implement restrictions on seafood imports from Japan in light of the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean, according to Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
The Agriculture and Food Security Minister stated that the Health Ministry and environmental experts are conducting a study to assess any potential risks before making a decision.
“No decision has been made at this point, and we will take a position if the study reveals any threats to the global population,” he told reporters during the launch of the Mardi Show-Tech organized by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) on August 25.
It has been reported that several countries, including China, have chosen to halt seafood imports from Japan as Tokyo started discharging treated radioactive water into the sea on August 24.
Mohamad mentioned that the government is currently prioritizing the security of the food supply, particularly rice, in response to early warnings from countries like India and Vietnam, which may raise prices or stop exporting altogether.
He emphasized the importance of making early preparations to ensure an adequate rice supply through new technology and research, as Malaysia currently relies on imports for 35% of its rice needs. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
