Agriculture and Agro-Based Industries Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has assured the people that Malaysian poultry was free from the deadly avian flu.

"Chickens and ducks in the domestic market are safe for consumption as they are free from the disease," he said, adding that the government was closely monitoring the situation.

"I know there is some concern among the public...I can assure you it is the role of the government, not only locally but also internationally, to regularly update the people on the bird flu scare.

FAMA markets

"Until today, we can guarantee we are free and all our chickens and ducks are safe for consumption," he said in a Bernama report.

On another matter, the minister said the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority would open 61 special farmers' markets nationwide until next Wednesday.