Summary
- 61 Malaysian organisations oppose GMO rice field trial.
- Proposed trial involves modified MR219 rice in Kampung Kepayang, Perak.
- Groups raise environmental, health and economic concerns.
- Formal objection submitted to Biosafety Department.
KUALA LUMPUR, August 22 — A coalition of 61 Malaysian farmers, consumer and environmental organisations has objected to a proposed confined field trial of genetically modified MR219 rice.
In Kampung Kepayang, Perak. The groups submitted their objection to the Department of Biosafety on Aug 7 over an application by Zen Cropscience Sdn Bhd.
The coalition raised concerns over potential genetic contamination, glyphosate use, impacts on biodiversity and possible economic consequences for farmers.
It argued that alternative weed and disease management approaches are available and called for the proposed field trial to be cancelled, citing concerns that genetically modified material.
Could spread beyond the trial environment.
