SERDANG, Aug 25 — Malaysia has yet to decide whether to restrict seafood imports from Japan following the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean, said Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
The Agriculture and Food Security Minister said the Health Ministry and environmental experts are conducting a study to determine any potential danger before the government decides on the matter.
“No decision has been reached at this point, and we will take a stance if the study reveals any threats to the global population,” he told reporters after officiating Mardi Show-Tech organised by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) here today.
It was reported that several countries have decided to suspend seafood imports from Japan as Tokyo began discharging treated radioactive water into the sea on Thursday.
Mohamad said the government is focusing on food security, especially rice, in response to early warnings from countries like India and Vietnam that may increase prices or stop exporting altogether.
He said early preparations must be made to ensure adequate rice supply through new technology and research, as Malaysia currently imports 35 per cent of its rice.
Regarding Mardi Show-Tech, Mohamad said it serves as a platform to showcase agricultural technology and innovation derived from the institute’s 54 years of research.
The exhibition, which is held until Sunday, aligns with Mardi’s efforts to boost the country’s agriculture and agro-food sector through technology and innovation.
— Bernama
