Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) handed over 417 boxes of frozen chicken cuts weighing 5,004 kilograms, which were confiscated, to the National Zoo yesterday. MAQIS director-general Shamsul Akbar Sulaiman stated that the seized frozen chicken cuts, valued at RM 42,023, would be used as food for the animals at the zoo.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the raw materials were the result of a seized animal product importation that was forfeited for failing to comply with the legal requirements under Section 11(1) and Section 13 of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728). Shamsul Akbar expressed hope that this donation would help cover the supply costs of raw materials to be used as food for the animals at the zoo.

He further explained that in 2024 alone, MAQIS has handed over a total of 91,737.70 kg, valued at RM 835,713.76, to various agencies and parties in need. This action is part of the department's methods for disposing of seized animal products, and Shamsul Akbar emphasised that MAQIS would not compromise on non-compliance, especially concerning biosecurity issues.