In Malaysia Concerns have been expressed about the increasing influence of foreign nationals which includes people who are Bangladesh, Rohingyas, and Indonesians on the marketplace for vegetable products. The groups have been reported to be in charge of more than 1,000 hectares of illegally cultivated gardens, which has led to demands for regulation. The overwhelming influence of these foreign companies over the cultivation of vegetables is causing concern about the effects on Malaysia’s agriculture-based food sector and the well-being of Malaysian citizens, specifically when it comes to the illegal applications of pesticides.

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry in the form of Agriculture Department director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi has only the ability to enforce its laws, but is limited by the Pesticides Act 1974. The act regulates the supervision of importation and manufacture registration, distribution, as well as permit issue.

Nor Sam highlighted the challenges created by farms run illegally by foreigners and do not have the benefit of monitoring. The lack of supervision She said it could lead to the use of pesticides and pesticides in unauthorized application and other blunders which could lead to growing of dangerous crops which could harm public health.

Source: nst.com.my