Maqis Seizes Ornamental Plants From Taiwan Found With Pests

SHAH ALAM (Selangor, Malaysia) April 27 (Bernama) --The Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) seized 5,000 ornamental plants of the podocarpus macrophyllus type from Taiwan, worth RM18,350, in West Port Klang, Monday. Selangor MAQIS director Zamri Hashim said the plants, weighing 6,690 kilogrammes, were seized after they were found to have pests during a routine inspection at 3.30 pm Monday. “The case will be investigated under Section 14 of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 for importing agricultural products believed to have pests, diseases or contaminants. “The offence provides for a maximum fine of RM100,000 or imprisonment for up to six years or both, and for the second or subsequent offence, a maximum fine of RM150,000 or imprisonment not exceeding seven years or both, upon conviction,” he said in a statement Tuesday. -- BERNAMA