JOHOR BARU: The state Health Department is awaiting laboratory reports relating to the deaths of an elderly couple who passed away after consuming pufferfish.
Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the reports are expected to be completed in the next two or three weeks.
"The Kluang district health office with the assistance of the Batu Pahat district health office has carried out investigations into the case.
“The police have also opened investigation papers,” he said this to the press when met during a Buka Puasa event with media practitioners at a hotel here.
Also present was MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
Ling said that the completed investigation papers will be submitted to the deputy public prosecutor who will decide if the relevant parties, including the supplier of the fish, could be charged.
"We will also need to discuss with the Health Ministry and experts from universities on whether the existing Acts are sufficient for us to charge the supplier of the fish," he said.
He also advised the public not to consume the fish.
An elderly couple in Kluang died after consuming the deadly pufferfish recently.
Ng Chuan Sing @ Eng Kuai Sin, 84, and his wife Lim Siew Guan, 83, consumed the fish they bought from a trader on March 25, unaware that it was the deadly puffer fish.
The couple began experiencing breathing difficulties after eating it.
Several hours later, Lim died, while Ng went into a coma and passed away on Saturday (April 8).
