Calls grow for Sabah to widen pork imports beyond Denmark and France as prices climb to RM18 per kg

KOTA KINABALU, Aug 26 — Pork prices in Sabah have recently escalated to RM17.50 or RM18 per kg, prompting calls for the State to broaden its import sources and take stronger measures to reduce food costs. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Chan Foong Hin emphasized that the rise in pork prices is partly attributable to Sabah's narrow range of imported pork providers.

Currently, the State permits imports solely from Denmark and France. Chan clarified that the Federal Government has authorized frozen pork imports from a broader spectrum of 11 countries, including Australia, the United States, Brazil, Thailand, Canada, Belgium, Ireland, and Spain. However, Sabah and Sarawak possess the authority to determine whether these imports are permitted within their respective states.

Chan explained that all imported pork must initially undergo rigorous audits and adhere to stringent food safety regulations.

In contrast to Sabah, pork prices in the peninsula have witnessed a decline over the past six months, thanks to the introduction of chilled pork from Thailand. This development has introduced more competition, driving down prices. Chan, who also represents Kota Kinabalu as an MP, attributed Sabah's elevated pork prices to its geographical distance from European pork import sources, often necessitating an intermediary stop in Singapore.

He linked the State's limited import sources to the smuggling of frozen meat and other food products across its borders. Chan stressed that while food safety standards remain paramount, diversifying import sources can alleviate pricing and supply issues. He highlighted that Sabah faces long-term challenges related to pig farming, encompassing environmental compliance, pollution controls, and the modernization of farming practices.

The State government needs to invest in more modern and responsible pig farming facilities, as evident by the Tongod facility, which had completed its infrastructure in 2018 but has yet to commence operations. In the interim, Chan urged the State Government to explore avenues to reduce the cost of living, particularly food prices, which are higher in Sabah compared to other parts of Malaysia.

He has already been in dialogue with State authorities regarding the potential diversification of pork import sources. Additionally, Chan plans to host another pork sale in conjunction with the upcoming Mooncake Festival to alleviate financial burdens on the non-Muslim community.