Deputy chief minister Douglas Uggah Embas said the decision was made after eight of 13 pigs tested in Pitas, Sabah, were found to be positive for the disease.

He said the ban was made under Section 8 of the Sarawak Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999.

“Sarawak is still free from ASF. Hence, the public are advised not to buy or bring in any pork and pork products from Sabah or any neighbouring countries,” he said.

Those who contravene the import ban or import any animal or animal product without permit may be fined up to RM50,000, jailed for two years or both, he said.

Uggah said the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak will tighten security and surveillance in the state for ASF, especially in the Limbang division.

He said the department has conducted engagement and awareness sessions on ASF with stakeholders, including farmers and importers, and agencies such Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd, the customs and immigration departments, port authorities and local councils.

It will also step up awareness campaigns and regulatory measures to ensure the AFS virus does not enter the state.

“Sarawak has a total population of 30,000 sows producing 455,000 porkers annually worth RM455 million,” he said.

“It is the department’s responsibility to ensure the state continues to be free from animal diseases that are zoonotic.”