KOTA KINABALU: The invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus has made its way to the foothill of Mount Kinabalu, underscoring the pervasiveness of the plant throughout Malaysia.
A small patch of the weed was detected in Kampung Lasing Ranau, said Sabah Agriculture Department director Idrus Shafie.
Idrus said it was the first discovery here after the presence of the plant, also known locally as rumpai miang Mexico, came to light in Peninsular Malaysia earlier this month.
Agronomists in Sabah are now taking immediate steps to destroy the weed to prevent it from spreading to other areas in the valley.
“We have been on alert since the weed was discovered in the peninsula,” said Idrus, adding that his department had yet to determine the severity of the infestation in Sabah.
“We are working with all district personnel to create awareness.
“We are also liaising with the Health Ministry to identify the health hazards posed by this weed,” said Idrus, who added that flyers were being distributed to farmers here to educate them on the dangers posed by the weed.
- Source: The Star Online
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