LABUAN, Sept 3 (NNN-BERNAMA) — The Labuan Health Department is working closely with the Department of Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) to strictly monitor vegetables coming from mainland Sabah to ensure they are safe for consumption.
Labuan Health director Dr Ismuni Bohari said at least 145 samples had been taken for analysis since 2018 and eight had been found to have high concentrations of pesticides that could adversely affect the health of consumers.
“As Labuan is still heavily dependent on fresh vegetables from Sabah, it is our responsibility to ensure this essential item is free from diseases, contamination and pesticide residue toxicity.
“We are working together with MAQIS to provide integrated services for more effective enforcement at entry points of the ferry terminal,” he said at a press conference after the nationwide launch of the Food Safety Day at Peladang Building here today.
He said 25 wet and dry markets here had been checked since 2018 and the majority of the traders were found to have complied with food safety regulations.
“As we are doing our part to encourage business activities, food safety will not be compromised. We will act according to the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985,” Dr Ismuni said.
–NNN-BERNAMA