'Rogue weed problem in Negri Sembilan under control'

SEREMBAN: Several areas in Negri Sembilan affected by a highly-allergenic weed, locally known as "rumpai miang Mexico", are reported to be under control, said State Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Committee chairman Datuk Hasim Rusdi.
He said the three locations identified having the weed scientifically known as "par­thenium hysterophorus" were Rantau (Siliau), Johol and Kuala Pilah.
"The public need not worry as the Veterinary Department and Agriculture Department have been directed to monitor the situation periodically and kill the weed using herbicides.
"They grow in clusters in areas due to livestock such as imported cows. The faeces from these livestock cause the weed to spread, even around the roads of Kuala Pilah," he said today.
The weed, a wild species which originates from various countries in North and South America, was not only dangerous to humans but also to the ecosystem, agriculture and animals including cattle.
Hasim said the public may not even realise the weed growing in the premises of their home. The weed looks similar to the "ulam raja" which is frequently served as a dish.
He said contact with the weed could, among others, cause itchiness. Therefore, he urged the public to report sightings of the weed to the Agriculture Department so that action could be taken. – Bernama