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Chitchat It's Official! Jiuhu moslems Have Been Eating Haram Meat For 40 Years! m&d Officers Betraying Islam For Sex And US$40 Bribes!
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50 years ago, Muslim do not eat in restaurants.
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Malaysia meat cartel: 4 remanded in Johor as probe continues
Malaysia meat cartel
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested four individuals from a frozen meat importing company in Johor on Jan 3, 2021. (Photo: Bernama)
04 Jan 2021 03:53PM
(Updated: 04 Jan 2021 04:00PM)
Bookmark
JOHOR BAHRU: Four individuals from two frozen meat import companies were remanded for four days by the Magistrate’s Court in Johor on suspicion of being involved in corrupt activities, as investigations continue over the smuggling of frozen meat.
Three of the suspects - two men and a woman - were the director, managing director and a clerk of one of the companies, while the other was a director of the other company.
The remand order was issued by Assistant Registrar Nur Izzaty Muhammad on Monday (Jan 4) to allow the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to probe further into the case under Section 17b of the MACC Act 2009.
All of them, aged between 39 and 50, were detained at the Johor MACC office on Sunday night to assist in the ongoing investigation.
READ: SFA, MUIS looking into concerns that alleged Malaysian 'meat cartel syndicate' has affected Singapore
There have been reports in Malaysia regarding an alleged meat cartel syndicate that smuggled, repacked and relabelled non-halal frozen meat items as halal-certified for sale in the country.
According to the media reports, the cartel brought in frozen meat from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina, and repackaged the meat using the halal logo at a warehouse in Senai, Johor.
A raid was carried out last month and 1,500 tonnes of frozen meat worth RM30 million (US$7.5 million) had been seized, according to the New Straits Times. Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has ordered a special report on the scandal to be submitted to the government, said Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) director-general Saiful Yazan Alwi
The MACC said in an earlier statement that they had identified the frozen meat importers believed involved in the corrupt activities.
They said this was made possible with the cooperation from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, the Department of Veterinary Services, MAQIS and the Customs Department.
Source: Bernama/CNA/tx
Malaysia meat cartel
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested four individuals from a frozen meat importing company in Johor on Jan 3, 2021. (Photo: Bernama)
04 Jan 2021 03:53PM
(Updated: 04 Jan 2021 04:00PM)
Bookmark
JOHOR BAHRU: Four individuals from two frozen meat import companies were remanded for four days by the Magistrate’s Court in Johor on suspicion of being involved in corrupt activities, as investigations continue over the smuggling of frozen meat.
Three of the suspects - two men and a woman - were the director, managing director and a clerk of one of the companies, while the other was a director of the other company.
The remand order was issued by Assistant Registrar Nur Izzaty Muhammad on Monday (Jan 4) to allow the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to probe further into the case under Section 17b of the MACC Act 2009.
All of them, aged between 39 and 50, were detained at the Johor MACC office on Sunday night to assist in the ongoing investigation.
READ: SFA, MUIS looking into concerns that alleged Malaysian 'meat cartel syndicate' has affected Singapore
There have been reports in Malaysia regarding an alleged meat cartel syndicate that smuggled, repacked and relabelled non-halal frozen meat items as halal-certified for sale in the country.
According to the media reports, the cartel brought in frozen meat from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina, and repackaged the meat using the halal logo at a warehouse in Senai, Johor.
A raid was carried out last month and 1,500 tonnes of frozen meat worth RM30 million (US$7.5 million) had been seized, according to the New Straits Times. Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has ordered a special report on the scandal to be submitted to the government, said Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) director-general Saiful Yazan Alwi
The MACC said in an earlier statement that they had identified the frozen meat importers believed involved in the corrupt activities.
They said this was made possible with the cooperation from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, the Department of Veterinary Services, MAQIS and the Customs Department.
Source: Bernama/CNA/tx
- Joined
- Jun 27, 2018
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How Malaysia’s ‘meat cartel’ scandal unfolded: A timeline | Malay Mail
A worker arranges imported frozen meat at a shop in Ipoh December 28, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najib
A worker arranges imported frozen meat at a shop in Ipoh December 28, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 4 — Allegations of a giant network selling imported meat passed off as halal with the help of corrupt government officials from multiple agencies triggered widespread alarm in Muslim-majority Malaysia as 2020 wound to a close.
In a country where beef, chicken and mutton rendang are relished by all races, but especially over 60 per cent of the 32 million population, the possibility of having consumed “fake” halal meat is a big deal.
More so after news reports emerged that the meats sourced from abroad may have included kangaroo, horse and even pork. And that the practice had been going on for years, with some even claiming as long as four decades.
While these claims have since been debunked by the Islamic affairs minister Datuk Seri Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, questions seeking transparency and accountability have been demanded of the key government agencies in charge of regulating food imports and halal certification.
These include the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), Veterinary Services Department (DVS), Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis), Customs Department and port police.
A number of prominent public figures have also called for a royal inquiry and an overhaul of the regulators.
While investigations by the police, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) are ongoing, here’s a chronology of events as they unfolded in the latest scandal to envelop Malaysia.
Nov 23
Malay daily Sinar Harian reported anonymous sources claiming that a freight company responsible for managing imported meat took the easy route and brought in frozen meat from countries that did not have the halal certification from Jakim.
According to the report, this practice had been going on for a few years. “Insiders” stationed at several ports that were the international gateway into Malaysia would turn a blind eye to the meat cargo brought in using falsified documents.
Dec 2
Sinar Harian followed up with a report detailing how a “cartel” was smuggling frozen meats from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina and repacked using Malaysian halal logos for sale in markets across the country.
The cartel was uncovered during a warehouse raid by the authorities in Senai, Johor where 1,500 tonnes of imported frozen meat worth RM30 million was seized.
The report cited Maqis saying its investigations found the cartel was impersonating a well-known local frozen meat supplier. The Senai warehouse was allegedly its repacking hub where the goods would be stamped with falsified halal logos.
Dec 4
Islamic Affairs Minister Zulkifli denied receiving reports linking Jakim officers to the scandal.
Dec 16
KPDNHEP enforcement director Datuk Iskandar Halim Sulaiman similarly denied his officers were involved, adding that an internal probe was unnecessary as his ministry is not in charge of the import process.
Dec 21
New Straits Times reported anonymous sources claiming senior government officers from at least four agencies were aiding the cartel. The English language daily was also the first to report the practice to be ongoing for over 40 years, and that officials were offered cash and women for sexual services to ignore the cartel’s activities.
The Johor MACC began its investigation on the same day.
Dec 23
KPDNHEP joins in investigations. Its minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said it has a local company in its scope for two trade description offences.
Dec 26
Umno Youth chief Datuk Seri Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki demanded the government form a special task force to address the scandal.
Zukifli’s deputy Ahmad Marzuk Shaary announced stricter enforcement of the government's standard operating procedures for halal certification of imported goods.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim joined calls for a thorough investigation into the cartel, calling the smuggling of meat passed off as halal an “immoral activity”. He said it is a wake-up call for everyone, including the government, to step up the fight against corruption as it has tarnished the image of Islamic halal regulators.
Dec 28
Zulkifli Mohamad said Jakim will issue a list of licensed meat importers to assuage public concern about the halal status.
DAP’s Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim called for a royal commission of inquiry (RCI) into the cartel, saying the larger issue concerned food quality and safety as problematic products, including diseased meats could be brought into Malaysia if the regulators were not doing their job properly.
Umno Youth filed a police report on the smuggled meat, calling for a joint investigation with the police and MACC so action will be sped up.
Dec 29
Jakim comes under fire from all sides. The Malay Consultative Council demanded an overhaul of Jakim after accusing it of dereliction of duty in the issuance of halal certification to meat imports and Anwar castigates it for passing the buck to other government agencies when it is the sole authority that can certify halal products in the country.
KPDNHEP announces the formation of a legal and halal enforcement committee.
Jakim deputy director-general (operations) Datuk Abdul Aziz Jusoh said the department has prepared an action plan against smuggling in meat from non-certified countries and will present it in a meeting with KPDNHEP, Maqis and Customs on January 5.
Bukit Aman said the cartel operatives were not only locals but part of an international ring, based on the size of the seizure in the Senai raid.
Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Rosol Wahid clears Malaysia’s three largest frozen meat suppliers — the Allana Group, Amroon and Al-Aali — from the scandal, guaranteeing all their products are halal.
Dec 30
The government charges two directors of a Johor Baru-based frozen meat company, Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd, with falsifying halal logos on its transport vehicles.
The accused, Rahman Sheik Abdullah, 44, and his wife Raihanah Kasim, 42, claimed trial in the Sessions Court. Judge Mohamad Haidar Abdul Aziz allowed them bail of RM40,000 each with one surety, pending mention of the case on January 19.
A worker arranges imported frozen meat at a shop in Ipoh December 28, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najib
A worker arranges imported frozen meat at a shop in Ipoh December 28, 2020. — Picture by Farhan Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 4 — Allegations of a giant network selling imported meat passed off as halal with the help of corrupt government officials from multiple agencies triggered widespread alarm in Muslim-majority Malaysia as 2020 wound to a close.
In a country where beef, chicken and mutton rendang are relished by all races, but especially over 60 per cent of the 32 million population, the possibility of having consumed “fake” halal meat is a big deal.
More so after news reports emerged that the meats sourced from abroad may have included kangaroo, horse and even pork. And that the practice had been going on for years, with some even claiming as long as four decades.
While these claims have since been debunked by the Islamic affairs minister Datuk Seri Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, questions seeking transparency and accountability have been demanded of the key government agencies in charge of regulating food imports and halal certification.
These include the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), Veterinary Services Department (DVS), Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis), Customs Department and port police.
A number of prominent public figures have also called for a royal inquiry and an overhaul of the regulators.
While investigations by the police, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) are ongoing, here’s a chronology of events as they unfolded in the latest scandal to envelop Malaysia.
Nov 23
Malay daily Sinar Harian reported anonymous sources claiming that a freight company responsible for managing imported meat took the easy route and brought in frozen meat from countries that did not have the halal certification from Jakim.
According to the report, this practice had been going on for a few years. “Insiders” stationed at several ports that were the international gateway into Malaysia would turn a blind eye to the meat cargo brought in using falsified documents.
Dec 2
Sinar Harian followed up with a report detailing how a “cartel” was smuggling frozen meats from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina and repacked using Malaysian halal logos for sale in markets across the country.
The cartel was uncovered during a warehouse raid by the authorities in Senai, Johor where 1,500 tonnes of imported frozen meat worth RM30 million was seized.
The report cited Maqis saying its investigations found the cartel was impersonating a well-known local frozen meat supplier. The Senai warehouse was allegedly its repacking hub where the goods would be stamped with falsified halal logos.
Dec 4
Islamic Affairs Minister Zulkifli denied receiving reports linking Jakim officers to the scandal.
Dec 16
KPDNHEP enforcement director Datuk Iskandar Halim Sulaiman similarly denied his officers were involved, adding that an internal probe was unnecessary as his ministry is not in charge of the import process.
Dec 21
New Straits Times reported anonymous sources claiming senior government officers from at least four agencies were aiding the cartel. The English language daily was also the first to report the practice to be ongoing for over 40 years, and that officials were offered cash and women for sexual services to ignore the cartel’s activities.
The Johor MACC began its investigation on the same day.
Dec 23
KPDNHEP joins in investigations. Its minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said it has a local company in its scope for two trade description offences.
Dec 26
Umno Youth chief Datuk Seri Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki demanded the government form a special task force to address the scandal.
Zukifli’s deputy Ahmad Marzuk Shaary announced stricter enforcement of the government's standard operating procedures for halal certification of imported goods.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim joined calls for a thorough investigation into the cartel, calling the smuggling of meat passed off as halal an “immoral activity”. He said it is a wake-up call for everyone, including the government, to step up the fight against corruption as it has tarnished the image of Islamic halal regulators.
Dec 28
Zulkifli Mohamad said Jakim will issue a list of licensed meat importers to assuage public concern about the halal status.
DAP’s Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim called for a royal commission of inquiry (RCI) into the cartel, saying the larger issue concerned food quality and safety as problematic products, including diseased meats could be brought into Malaysia if the regulators were not doing their job properly.
Umno Youth filed a police report on the smuggled meat, calling for a joint investigation with the police and MACC so action will be sped up.
Dec 29
Jakim comes under fire from all sides. The Malay Consultative Council demanded an overhaul of Jakim after accusing it of dereliction of duty in the issuance of halal certification to meat imports and Anwar castigates it for passing the buck to other government agencies when it is the sole authority that can certify halal products in the country.
KPDNHEP announces the formation of a legal and halal enforcement committee.
Jakim deputy director-general (operations) Datuk Abdul Aziz Jusoh said the department has prepared an action plan against smuggling in meat from non-certified countries and will present it in a meeting with KPDNHEP, Maqis and Customs on January 5.
Bukit Aman said the cartel operatives were not only locals but part of an international ring, based on the size of the seizure in the Senai raid.
Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Rosol Wahid clears Malaysia’s three largest frozen meat suppliers — the Allana Group, Amroon and Al-Aali — from the scandal, guaranteeing all their products are halal.
Dec 30
The government charges two directors of a Johor Baru-based frozen meat company, Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd, with falsifying halal logos on its transport vehicles.
The accused, Rahman Sheik Abdullah, 44, and his wife Raihanah Kasim, 42, claimed trial in the Sessions Court. Judge Mohamad Haidar Abdul Aziz allowed them bail of RM40,000 each with one surety, pending mention of the case on January 19.
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As ‘meat cartel’ scandal erupts, local butchers say suspected it for years but authorities stayed silent | Malay Mail
Local and imported frozen beef seller Zamry Shahbhari speaks to Malay Mail at his stall in the PJ Old Town market, December 31, 2020. ― Picture by Choo Choy May
Local and imported frozen beef seller Zamry Shahbhari speaks to Malay Mail at his stall in the PJ Old Town market, December 31, 2020. ― Picture by Choo Choy May
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 4 — The recent halal “meat cartel” scandal that blew up nationwide came as no surprise to many local butchers in Klang Valley recently polled by Malay Mail.
Speaking during our visit to wet markets, the butchers polled mostly said they have been suffering in silence for years knowing the existence of the purported cartel, and were left disappointed with the authorities’ lackadaisical attitude towards the syndicate.
Zamry Shahbhari, a butcher in the Petaling Jaya Old Town wet market, related that local butchers have been aware that there were companies bringing in more meat than they practically could, but said no action was taken despite them lodging complaints.
“I’m sorry to say but I feel what the government is doing right now to tackle this issue is a load of crap. I don’t want to mention which minister but we know who it is and they were doing a piss pot job of it.
“We’ve been hearing about this illegal meat trade for years and local breeders have made police reports but nothing came of them,” Zamry lamented.
“Instead we’re hearing about this company in Johor, Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd, and the husband and wife being charged for involvement in this illegal business. What’s the point? These are small fries, the bigger culprits are still out there,” he added.
Zambry was referring to a frozen meat supplier, whose directors were charged in the Johor Baru Sessions Court last week following the media exposé of a purported syndicate that repackaged non-halal meat with halal meat.
The accused Rahman Sheik Abdullah, 44, and his wife Raihanah Kasim, 42, pleaded not guilty, but they were merely charged with using a non-certified halal logo on the company truck.
When asked how the butchers became suspicious, Zamry said authorities only allow foreign companies to bring in a certain amount of frozen meat on a monthly basis — but the amount they brought it allegedly have always exceeded the amount approved by Islamic authorities which enforce the halal certification.
“Then suddenly we hear of this company bringing 50 to 70 containers per month to Malaysia for several months. This is way too many for one company. Usually it’s around 20 to 30 containers per month or less,” said Zamry, explaining that one container would contain the equivalent of one tonne of meat.
“I think we need to look at the Customs and Immigration departments, as well as other agencies involved more closely. Many butchers are not willing to talk for fear of repercussions but I feel this is an important issue and if it’s true you need not be afraid,” he said.
Sulong Mohd says corrupt officials and poor governance in government agencies have resulted in officers being corrupt for years. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Sulong Mohd says corrupt officials and poor governance in government agencies have resulted in officers being corrupt for years. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Another butcher located in Seksyen 16 Market in Shah Alam, Sulong Mohd, also lamented the fact that the possibility that the purported cartel has lasted for years meant that many of the corrupt staff involved from the authorities have likely been leading very comfortable lives with their ill-gotten gains.
“If they said that this meat cartel issue has been going on for 40 years, the officers involved probably have retired and are enjoying their life.
“They might have escaped this heresy, but we don’t know what’s going to happen in the afterlife,” he told Malay Mail when met.
Halal certification confirms that products have been prepared in accordance with Islamic law, and is a big deal for Muslims globally and in Malaysia, where they make up about 60 per cent of the population.
According to Bloomberg, the global halal-meat business is a US$2.3 trillion (RM9.3 trillion) market and Malaysia exports US$9 billion in halal-certified products including cosmetics and pharmaceutical products to China, Singapore, USA and Japan among others.
The meat cartel scandal became the talk of the town after the media broke news on the smuggling of frozen meat from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina before repackaging said meat and assigning it the halal logo at a warehouse in Senai, Johor.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador said the police have opened several investigation papers over the issue based on reports lodged by several individuals and non-governmental organisations.
Abu says many prefer imported meat because local grown meats are more expensive. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Abu says many prefer imported meat because local grown meats are more expensive. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
However, Abu Khan, another butcher also from the Shah Alam market said that no matter what, consumers will always tend to prefer frozen meat to fresh ones due to the cheaper cost.
“This is the reality, the one and only factor was corruption among government officials and lastly, the people are the ones who are going to pay for the price,” Abu said when met.
The disparity between local beef and cheap imports
Checks by Malay Mail found the prices of local fresh beef remains the same, even as the story of the scandal broke and many Malay-Muslim groups have urged adherents to stay away from frozen imported meat until this issue gets solved by authorities and religious bodies.
Butchers told Malay Mail that this was down to price regulation, and the simple fact that butchers are not able to simply raise prices as local meat is already more expensive than imported meat.
Tenderloin from local beef goes for between RM43 and 48 per kg, compared to RM38 for imported ones. A kilogramme of topside, knuckle or rump goes for around RM40, while the imported meat costs RM28 per kg.
Minced or ground up meat is around RM35 per kg locally compared to RM24 for the imported meat.
Other meat cuts like the hoof, leg as well as innards like hearts, lungs and spleen have about RM1 to 5 differences between the local and imported meats.
Khairul Majid says he sees no increase in customers despite the meat cartel scandal. — Picture by Choo Choy May
Khairul Majid says he sees no increase in customers despite the meat cartel scandal. — Picture by Choo Choy May
“These price differences when added up for bulk purchases makes a lot of difference that’s the reason for businesses purchasing frozen meats from overseas,” said Khairul Majid, a butcher at Taman Tun Dr Ismail wet market.
“Plus this time of the year is the slow time. Not a lot of festivities and we do not see a stark increase in customers despite this scandal gripping the country. People are struggling economically too, so many aren’t eating meat on a daily basis.”
The government has not stopped the import of beef to the country while it is investigating the scandal. Instead, Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Rosol Wahid has even vouched for the top three frozen meat brands: Allana, Amroon, and Al-Aali — all from India.
When asked if there would be any shortage of halal beef following the scandal, one butcher who wished to be known as Ah Keong said the possibility will only be known in the next two weeks.
Butcher Ah Keong says if there is a shortage of halal meat, it will be known in a couple of weeks. — Picture by Choo Choy May
Butcher Ah Keong says if there is a shortage of halal meat, it will be known in a couple of weeks. — Picture by Choo Choy May
“I haven’t ordered my stock today so I don’t know what the situation is yet. But if there is a shortage we will know in two weeks.
“The main warehouse can store meats for up to two months so for now I believe things are still okay,” said Ah Keong.
Religious affairs minister Datuk Zulkifli Mohamad had last week said that the government will now meet with industry players involved in the importation of meat and slaughtering of animals to ensure they understand the set guidelines.
The senator said this was also to ensure a high level of compliance with the guidelines and integrity of the industry players.
Local and imported frozen beef seller Zamry Shahbhari speaks to Malay Mail at his stall in the PJ Old Town market, December 31, 2020. ― Picture by Choo Choy May
Local and imported frozen beef seller Zamry Shahbhari speaks to Malay Mail at his stall in the PJ Old Town market, December 31, 2020. ― Picture by Choo Choy May
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 4 — The recent halal “meat cartel” scandal that blew up nationwide came as no surprise to many local butchers in Klang Valley recently polled by Malay Mail.
Speaking during our visit to wet markets, the butchers polled mostly said they have been suffering in silence for years knowing the existence of the purported cartel, and were left disappointed with the authorities’ lackadaisical attitude towards the syndicate.
Zamry Shahbhari, a butcher in the Petaling Jaya Old Town wet market, related that local butchers have been aware that there were companies bringing in more meat than they practically could, but said no action was taken despite them lodging complaints.
“I’m sorry to say but I feel what the government is doing right now to tackle this issue is a load of crap. I don’t want to mention which minister but we know who it is and they were doing a piss pot job of it.
“We’ve been hearing about this illegal meat trade for years and local breeders have made police reports but nothing came of them,” Zamry lamented.
“Instead we’re hearing about this company in Johor, Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd, and the husband and wife being charged for involvement in this illegal business. What’s the point? These are small fries, the bigger culprits are still out there,” he added.
Zambry was referring to a frozen meat supplier, whose directors were charged in the Johor Baru Sessions Court last week following the media exposé of a purported syndicate that repackaged non-halal meat with halal meat.
The accused Rahman Sheik Abdullah, 44, and his wife Raihanah Kasim, 42, pleaded not guilty, but they were merely charged with using a non-certified halal logo on the company truck.
When asked how the butchers became suspicious, Zamry said authorities only allow foreign companies to bring in a certain amount of frozen meat on a monthly basis — but the amount they brought it allegedly have always exceeded the amount approved by Islamic authorities which enforce the halal certification.
“Then suddenly we hear of this company bringing 50 to 70 containers per month to Malaysia for several months. This is way too many for one company. Usually it’s around 20 to 30 containers per month or less,” said Zamry, explaining that one container would contain the equivalent of one tonne of meat.
“I think we need to look at the Customs and Immigration departments, as well as other agencies involved more closely. Many butchers are not willing to talk for fear of repercussions but I feel this is an important issue and if it’s true you need not be afraid,” he said.
Sulong Mohd says corrupt officials and poor governance in government agencies have resulted in officers being corrupt for years. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Sulong Mohd says corrupt officials and poor governance in government agencies have resulted in officers being corrupt for years. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Another butcher located in Seksyen 16 Market in Shah Alam, Sulong Mohd, also lamented the fact that the possibility that the purported cartel has lasted for years meant that many of the corrupt staff involved from the authorities have likely been leading very comfortable lives with their ill-gotten gains.
“If they said that this meat cartel issue has been going on for 40 years, the officers involved probably have retired and are enjoying their life.
“They might have escaped this heresy, but we don’t know what’s going to happen in the afterlife,” he told Malay Mail when met.
Halal certification confirms that products have been prepared in accordance with Islamic law, and is a big deal for Muslims globally and in Malaysia, where they make up about 60 per cent of the population.
According to Bloomberg, the global halal-meat business is a US$2.3 trillion (RM9.3 trillion) market and Malaysia exports US$9 billion in halal-certified products including cosmetics and pharmaceutical products to China, Singapore, USA and Japan among others.
The meat cartel scandal became the talk of the town after the media broke news on the smuggling of frozen meat from China, Ukraine, Brazil and Argentina before repackaging said meat and assigning it the halal logo at a warehouse in Senai, Johor.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador said the police have opened several investigation papers over the issue based on reports lodged by several individuals and non-governmental organisations.
Abu says many prefer imported meat because local grown meats are more expensive. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
Abu says many prefer imported meat because local grown meats are more expensive. — Picture by Miera Zulyana
However, Abu Khan, another butcher also from the Shah Alam market said that no matter what, consumers will always tend to prefer frozen meat to fresh ones due to the cheaper cost.
“This is the reality, the one and only factor was corruption among government officials and lastly, the people are the ones who are going to pay for the price,” Abu said when met.
The disparity between local beef and cheap imports
Checks by Malay Mail found the prices of local fresh beef remains the same, even as the story of the scandal broke and many Malay-Muslim groups have urged adherents to stay away from frozen imported meat until this issue gets solved by authorities and religious bodies.
Butchers told Malay Mail that this was down to price regulation, and the simple fact that butchers are not able to simply raise prices as local meat is already more expensive than imported meat.
Tenderloin from local beef goes for between RM43 and 48 per kg, compared to RM38 for imported ones. A kilogramme of topside, knuckle or rump goes for around RM40, while the imported meat costs RM28 per kg.
Minced or ground up meat is around RM35 per kg locally compared to RM24 for the imported meat.
Other meat cuts like the hoof, leg as well as innards like hearts, lungs and spleen have about RM1 to 5 differences between the local and imported meats.
Khairul Majid says he sees no increase in customers despite the meat cartel scandal. — Picture by Choo Choy May
Khairul Majid says he sees no increase in customers despite the meat cartel scandal. — Picture by Choo Choy May
“These price differences when added up for bulk purchases makes a lot of difference that’s the reason for businesses purchasing frozen meats from overseas,” said Khairul Majid, a butcher at Taman Tun Dr Ismail wet market.
“Plus this time of the year is the slow time. Not a lot of festivities and we do not see a stark increase in customers despite this scandal gripping the country. People are struggling economically too, so many aren’t eating meat on a daily basis.”
The government has not stopped the import of beef to the country while it is investigating the scandal. Instead, Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Rosol Wahid has even vouched for the top three frozen meat brands: Allana, Amroon, and Al-Aali — all from India.
When asked if there would be any shortage of halal beef following the scandal, one butcher who wished to be known as Ah Keong said the possibility will only be known in the next two weeks.
Butcher Ah Keong says if there is a shortage of halal meat, it will be known in a couple of weeks. — Picture by Choo Choy May
Butcher Ah Keong says if there is a shortage of halal meat, it will be known in a couple of weeks. — Picture by Choo Choy May
“I haven’t ordered my stock today so I don’t know what the situation is yet. But if there is a shortage we will know in two weeks.
“The main warehouse can store meats for up to two months so for now I believe things are still okay,” said Ah Keong.
Religious affairs minister Datuk Zulkifli Mohamad had last week said that the government will now meet with industry players involved in the importation of meat and slaughtering of animals to ensure they understand the set guidelines.
The senator said this was also to ensure a high level of compliance with the guidelines and integrity of the industry players.
- Joined
- Jun 27, 2018
- Messages
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Raihanah Cold Storage, company directors mull RM50 million defamation suit against Umno blogger for falsely suggesting complicity in meat import scandal | Malay Mail
The RM50 million lawsuit involved allegations made by Zaharin on Raihanah Cold Storage’s Facebook page. — Picture via Facebook/Raihanah Cold Storage
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 — Frozen meat supplier Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd is mulling a RM50 million lawsuit against Umno blogger Datuk Zaharin Mohd Yasin for defamation over a Facebook post linking the company’s complicity in the alleged smuggling of ‘non-halal’ meat.
Lawyer Datuk Mohd Haaziq Pillay, who represented the company, said the RM50 million lawsuit involved allegations made by Zaharin in a Facebook post, in which the accompanying caption of the post appeared to suggest that the company and his clients were involved in selling meat which is “haram” under Islamic principles.
“Therefore, my firm has sent a notice of demand to Zaharin yesterday asking him to issue a public apology and sign an undertaking to not to reproduce such remarks elsewhere within eight days from today.
“If there is no apology and a retraction of the statement (from Zaharin) then the writ will be filed,” Haaziq said.
Apart from the company, Mohd Haaziq also represented the company’s directors — Rahman Sheik Abdullah and his wife Raihanah Kasim — who were both named plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
A photo of Rahman and the company’s Company Commission of Malaysia (SSM) details were uploaded by Zaharin on December 25 at 6.31pm, which went on to garner 824 comments and 1,900 shares.
Haaziq said it was common knowledge based on media reports that the parties involved in the smuggling of non-halal imported meat being passed off as halal were the importers.
He explained that his clients were merely the distributors who are involved in the business of buying and distributing meat which are primarily mutton and beef.
“At all times, Rahman Sheikh Abdullah, Raihanah Kasim and Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd ensures that the meat is bought from suppliers in which a Certificate of Slaughter in accordance with Islamic rites is furnished by the suppliers.
“Therefore, the Facebook post as well as the comments and shares that followed is considered derogatory of my clients as they are Muslims themselves and to the company’s business reputation,” he said, adding that Rahman had also lodged a police report against Zaharin on the same day of the Facebook posting.
On December 30, both Rahman and Raihanah were charged in the Johor Baru Sessions Court following the media exposé of a purported syndicate that repackaged non-halal meat with halal meat. Both claimed trial.
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 — Frozen meat supplier Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd is mulling a RM50 million lawsuit against Umno blogger Datuk Zaharin Mohd Yasin for defamation over a Facebook post linking the company’s complicity in the alleged smuggling of ‘non-halal’ meat.
Lawyer Datuk Mohd Haaziq Pillay, who represented the company, said the RM50 million lawsuit involved allegations made by Zaharin in a Facebook post, in which the accompanying caption of the post appeared to suggest that the company and his clients were involved in selling meat which is “haram” under Islamic principles.
“Therefore, my firm has sent a notice of demand to Zaharin yesterday asking him to issue a public apology and sign an undertaking to not to reproduce such remarks elsewhere within eight days from today.
“If there is no apology and a retraction of the statement (from Zaharin) then the writ will be filed,” Haaziq said.
Apart from the company, Mohd Haaziq also represented the company’s directors — Rahman Sheik Abdullah and his wife Raihanah Kasim — who were both named plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
A photo of Rahman and the company’s Company Commission of Malaysia (SSM) details were uploaded by Zaharin on December 25 at 6.31pm, which went on to garner 824 comments and 1,900 shares.
Haaziq said it was common knowledge based on media reports that the parties involved in the smuggling of non-halal imported meat being passed off as halal were the importers.
He explained that his clients were merely the distributors who are involved in the business of buying and distributing meat which are primarily mutton and beef.
“At all times, Rahman Sheikh Abdullah, Raihanah Kasim and Raihanah Cold Storage Sdn Bhd ensures that the meat is bought from suppliers in which a Certificate of Slaughter in accordance with Islamic rites is furnished by the suppliers.
“Therefore, the Facebook post as well as the comments and shares that followed is considered derogatory of my clients as they are Muslims themselves and to the company’s business reputation,” he said, adding that Rahman had also lodged a police report against Zaharin on the same day of the Facebook posting.
On December 30, both Rahman and Raihanah were charged in the Johor Baru Sessions Court following the media exposé of a purported syndicate that repackaged non-halal meat with halal meat. Both claimed trial.
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- Sep 22, 2008
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- 81,216
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This halal issue can cause a compliant company to bankruptcy.
Past history showed some forced to close due to consumer wariness after rumours were spread wrt halalness.
Past history showed some forced to close due to consumer wariness after rumours were spread wrt halalness.
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- Jun 27, 2018
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- 30,289
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Meat cartel scandal: MACC calls 27 witnesses | Malay Mail
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification. — Picture by Farhan Najib
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification. — Picture by Farhan Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 18 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has called 27 witnesses, including workers, import agents and government officers, to have their statements recorded in connection with the frozen meat cartel scandal.
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification.
“At present, the MACC is still active in analysing the information, gathering evidence and making several more arrests to complete the investigations,” it said.
According to the statement, eight suspects have been remanded to facilitate investigations into the case since January 4.
The statement also said that the Johor MACC had arrested a 36-year-old company director in Johor Baru yesterday and that he had also been remanded for six days to assist in the investigations.
Johor MACC was previously reported to have opened an investigation paper on the smuggling of imported frozen meat scandal under Section 16 and 18 of the MACC Act 2009.
On January 8, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani was also reported to have said that the police were in the midst of recording witness statements on the issue to be submitted to the Attorney-General for further action. — Bernama
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification. — Picture by Farhan Najib
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification. — Picture by Farhan Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 18 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has called 27 witnesses, including workers, import agents and government officers, to have their statements recorded in connection with the frozen meat cartel scandal.
In a statement today, the agency said its investigations were more on the offences under the MACC Act 2009 which are related to accepting bribes, making false claims and document falsification.
“At present, the MACC is still active in analysing the information, gathering evidence and making several more arrests to complete the investigations,” it said.
According to the statement, eight suspects have been remanded to facilitate investigations into the case since January 4.
The statement also said that the Johor MACC had arrested a 36-year-old company director in Johor Baru yesterday and that he had also been remanded for six days to assist in the investigations.
Johor MACC was previously reported to have opened an investigation paper on the smuggling of imported frozen meat scandal under Section 16 and 18 of the MACC Act 2009.
On January 8, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani was also reported to have said that the police were in the midst of recording witness statements on the issue to be submitted to the Attorney-General for further action. — Bernama
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- Sep 22, 2008
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As long as the chinese shut their mouth when speaking it should be ok. Thank god for the mask at least no need to breath bad breath.
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- Jun 11, 2017
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- 301
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For non-muslims yes.
You are thinking of the actual, muscular tissues and flesh. Animal trimmings from slaughter houses such as skin, ligaments, eyes, tongue, ears cost next to nothing. Kangaroo meat can be easily purchase from Woolworth and Coles. But they usually cost abit more than Beef.
U mean by smelling/breathing the food, ur stomach full already?
Only 7th mth spirit do tat according to my cheena friends.
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- Jun 27, 2018
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Since when is kangaroo meat exported from kangaroo land?
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- Jun 11, 2017
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- 301
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Ask the news source
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- Oct 30, 2014
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From my jiuhu F&B sources, 'kangaroo meat' is codename for pork.
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- Jun 27, 2018
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So the truth should be revealed...n will the mudslimes commit suicide for they haram makan?
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- Apr 17, 2019
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oh yeah stinkies only receive ceca and chink virus
and at receiving end of ponding from time to time
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- Nov 24, 2010
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Do you guys know that Brunei import chicken from Singapore and the most sought after smugglers' offerings are chicken from sabah or sarawak? The fried chicken kind not the cumshot kind lah!
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- Nov 24, 2010
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All this happens only because ajib no longer pm. If he still pm all this would have been nicely covered up!
