KOTA BHARU, 2 May 2025 — A major smuggling attempt involving nearly 2,800 bonsai trees was successfully stopped by the Southeast Brigade of the General Operations Force (PGA) during a border operation in Kelantan, raising concerns about plant safety and illegal cross-border trade.
According to PGA Southeast Brigade Commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid, the bust took place last Tuesday around 7.20pm during Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan near KTJ Pos JP1 Pak Teh Kana.
A team from the 18th Battalion PGA stopped a suspicious lorry driven by a 29-year-old local man. Upon inspection, the officers discovered 2,780 bonsai trees, believed to have been smuggled from Thailand, with no valid import documents.
“These bonsai trees are suspected to carry insect pests and plant diseases that can harm local crops and biodiversity,” said Datuk Nik Ros Azhan in a media statement.
The total estimated value of the seizure — including the vehicle — is RM1.31 million, making it one of the largest plant-related smuggling busts this year.
All confiscated trees were handed over to the Kelantan Plant Biosecurity Division for further investigation and quarantine procedures. Authorities are also probing the source and intended recipients of the illegal shipment.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 5 of the Plant Quarantine Act 1976 (Act 167), which deals with the illegal import of plants without inspection or clearance.
This incident highlights the increasing threat of agricultural smuggling and the crucial role of the PGA in protecting Malaysia’s natural resources and food security. — Bernama
