Meat cartel: ‘Investigation complex, will take a long time’

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has acknowledged that the investigation into local companies linked to the activities of a meat cartel will take a long time.

Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the investigation was complex as it required the involvement of numerous agencies, such as the Veterinary Services Department and the Malaysia Islamic Development Department (Jakim).

“This issue concerns not just the ministry. Our scope of authority revolves only around the use of fake halal labels as well as consumer-related acts.

“Our investigation can only involve what falls under our scope of power. I cannot speak on behalf of other agencies and their respective investigations.

“However, we are not moving alone on this. We are cooperating with other agencies because this is necessary in order to resolve this issue,” he told Berita Harian.

Prior to this, the ministry had confirmed that it was investigating Malaysian companies linked to the cartel for offences under trademark laws.

Nanta Linggi said at the same time, the ministry could not rush any aspect of its investigation. The probe, he said, must be done carefully to ensure that the offender was brought to justice.

“We cannot rush as the issues are complex. Let us and the other agencies do a detailed investigation. If we rush (in prosecuting the companies), it could have other legal implications.” Nst