IMPORT THAI CHICKEN TO OVERCOME PRICE INCREASE

ALOR STAR (Malaysia), May 5 (Bernama) -- The Consumers Association of
northern state of Kedah would like the government to import chicken from
Thailand to cater to the state's increasing demand.

Its president, Yusoff Ismail said, surveys by the association at the
Alor Star Central Market found that supply of chicken was insufficient due to an
increase in demand from the Chinese community, following the Influenza A (H1N1)
epidemic.

He said the current price of a medium-size chicken, RM5.90 per kg, might
increase, should the epidemic prolong and the country's production was unable to
match demands.

"It isn't difficult to ensure the quality and halal status of chicken from
Thailand because they have a movement which considers the issue of halal, and
the veterinary department can monitor poultry processing plants there
(Thailand)," he told reporters here Monday.

Yusoff said the government could implement a ceiling price to control
extreme price increases, as was done previously.

"The association feels that the government should abolish any monopoly of
import permits of chicken and appoint a government-linked company (GLC) to
pursue poultry farming in the country.

"The government can select a deserving GLC to take over management of the
industry, without involving the private sector, so that the price of chicken
does not burden the people," he added.
-- BERNAMA