Sort out the law first: Perlis has no plans to export ketum, says MB

KANGAR – The Perlis government has no plans to export ketum leaves to Thailand until the legal framework on the matter is resolved.

Perlis Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Azlan Man said although the country does not prevent the planting of ketum trees, legal provisions prohibit the sale and use of the leaves.

He said apart from that, careful planning and solutions to the abuse of ketum leaves must also be considered comprehensively before any decision for export purposes is made, as the use of the leaves has a negative impact on society.

“We have to solve the legal problems first because as long as this is not resolved, we cannot sell or plant ketum.

“Whatever is to be implemented must have a legal framework that permits it,” he told reporters outside the Perlis assembly here today.

Perlis’ neighbour Kedah has proposed to the federal government to allow the state to export ketum leaves, which have narcotic properties, to Thailand for medicinal use. – Bernama, March 31, 2022