Malaysia formally became a member of the Asia-Pacific Food Regulatory Authority Summit (APFRAS) in August 2026, aiming to strengthen food safety governance by leveraging digital technology at the regional level [1, 2, 3]. The Cabinet approved Malaysia’s APFRAS membership on June 12, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The membership signing ceremony took place on August 11 alongside the opening of the 2026 Food Safety Conference in Putrajaya, which gathered over 300 participants to discuss challenges and innovations in food safety [1, 2, 3].
Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated, "Malaysia's participation in APFRAS further strengthens the country's role as a Smart Gatekeeper at the regional level. Malaysia is set to lead the digital transformation of food safety governance, regulate the use of biodegradable packaging materials and harmonise the legislative framework for new food innovations" [1]. He also noted, "This means that a large proportion of the food consumed by Malaysians today passes through long, complex global supply chains spanning multiple national borders" [2].
Food imports into Malaysia surged by 85% over the past decade, increasing from RM42.6 billion in 2013 to RM78.9 billion in 2023. This growth highlights the complexity and scale of global supply chains feeding the country’s population [1, 2, 3]. To address safety risks, the Health Ministry is exploring artificial intelligence and predictive analytics tools to improve monitoring and control at entry points [1, 2, 3]. Dr Dzulkefly said, "We are actively exploring the use of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to enhance safety monitoring and control efficiency at our country's entry points" [3].
Global data from the WHO and FAO indicates that 1 in 10 people worldwide fall ill each year from contaminated food, with emerging concerns including chemical contaminants, microplastics, and climate change impacts [3]. These challenges were key topics at the Food Safety Conference, which focused on evidence-based controls and innovation [1, 2, 3].
Malaysia’s APFRAS membership positions it to lead harmonisation of food safety laws and regulation of new food technologies and packaging materials across the region [1, 2, 3]. The next major milestone will be Malaysia’s active participation in APFRAS initiatives and collaborative projects scheduled throughout the remainder of 2026.
