PETALING JAYA: Approved permits (AP) are still needed to import rice, says the Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry.

       In a statement on Thursday (May 19), the ministry stated that this was a Cabinet decision.

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       This was announced a day after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said on Wednesday (May 18) that APs were no longer required to import food.

       However, the Ministry added that although APs are no longer required , importers still need to have import permits (IP) to ensure biosecurity control at the country's borders.

       "IPs are required to ensure products are free from diseases and pests as well as produced in facilities approved by the government," it said.

       It said with APs no longer required, companies are allowed to import any type of food that follows the IP issued, which has to be in line with the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act.

       APs were previously required to import several types of food including coconuts, milk, cabbage, chicken and seafood.

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       "The ministry will continue to play an important role in ensuring adequate food supply that is nutritious and safe for the people as well as preserve the welfare of local food producers," it added.P