KUALA LUMPUR: The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) is urging the Pesticides Board to take action against illegal pesticides sale following the death of two boys from poisoned crackers.
Its president Mohideen Abdul Kader said illegal pesticides have been openly being sold at market without proper labels or safety instructions in Penang and Baling, Kedah for years.
"Through our survey illegal pesticides are still being sold domestically and distributed from Kedah, Penang, and Kelantan, or imported from countries like Vietnam, China, and Thailand.
"These illegal pesticides, especially those from China, pose a significant risk to public health and must be stopped immediately," he said.
Additionally, he said the Health Ministry (MoH) revealed that the boys consumed crackers containing rat poison with Chinese labelling.
Mohideen also said a report by the Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (Panap) highlighted the sale of banned pesticides, such as paraquat, endosulfan and profenophos on Malaysian e-commerce platforms.
"These pesticides are known to cause severe health issues, including cancer and developmental disorders," he added.
Mohideen said padi farmers in the area openly admit these prohibited substances are available and are constantly sprayed to rid the farms of pests.
He said farming practices that are in harmony with nature should be recognised, prioritised, and supported as good agricultural practice.
"Agroecology in agricultural produce is safer, not just for local consumers and export markets, but also for farmers and their children who have the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.
"Safer alternatives, such as using ducks in padi fields and adopting agroecology practices, should be promoted," he said.
Mohideed also emphasised there is need for strict enforcement of the Pesticide Act 1974 and better education for farmers on the dangers of using these substances.