When did the meat cartel issue first surface in public discourse?

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The Meat Cartel Issue First Emerged in Public Discourse in October 2019

The 'meat cartel' scandal, involving the alleged import and sale of non-certified meat products as halal, first surfaced in public discourse in October 2019. This initial reporting was followed by further allegations regarding corruption among officers from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) in November of the same year. The issue gained significant media attention on December 21st, with reports detailing alleged involvement of senior officers from multiple government agencies.
Initial Reporting by Asia Sentinel

The issue of the meat cartel was first brought to public attention through reports by Asia Sentinel. This publication detailed the matter in October 2019, shortly after an Australian halal certification body had its recognition revoked by Jakim. In November 2019, Asia Sentinel further reported on alleged corruption issues involving Jakim officers.
Subsequent Allegations and Investigations

Following the initial reports, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) political appointee chief, Latheefa Koya, had reportedly promised an investigation. However, the status of this investigation remains unclear, with former Pakatan Harapan ministers stating that MACC never investigated the issue during their administration. The media reported on December 21st that senior officers from at least four government agencies were believed to be collaborating with the cartel.
Alleged Cartel Operations and Scope

The cartel is understood to have been operating for over 40 years, reportedly importing meat from non-halal-certified slaughterhouses in countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Canada, Colombia, Spain, and Mexico. Malaysian authorities have certified specific countries for halal meat imports, including Australia, Argentina, Brazil, India, South Africa, Pakistan, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States. Various agencies, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia, Veterinary Services Department, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department, Customs Department, and port police, are involved in the import and inspection process.

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When did the meat cartel issue first surface in public discourse?

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