Fisheries dept implements steps to ensure radiation-free fish imports after Fukushima water release

SHAH ALAM - The Fisheries Department has taken steps to ensure that the import of live marine fish remains free from radioactive contamination following Japan's recent decision to release treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean.

The department said all importers of live fish consignments must apply for an import permit from the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis) and comply with the stated import permit conditions.

"For the record, Malaysia imports fishery products for food purposes from Japan is in frozen form, namely sardines and mackerel.

"As for live fish from Japan, Malaysia only imports ornamental freshwater fish such as Koi Carp (Cyprinus carpio).

"The import of live fish only involves freshwater ornamental fish and not marine fish," it said today.

Furthermore, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM) through relevant departments will also ensure that standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure complaince for safety measures.

Since Aug 24, Japan has been releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean despite facing strong criticism and seafood import restrictions from China, North Korea, and Hong Kong.

Although this action has faced opposition, Japan remains steadfast in asserting that the water release is safe.