THERE are 10 commercial pig farms that are still operating in Sarawak, with an estimated yearly total production of 250,000 pigs, despite the African Swine Fever (ASF) disease.
Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Martin Ben said production is sufficient to fulfil the local demand and the export to Singapore.
He said though his ministry continues to allow the setting up of new farms, they must, however, comply with modern pig farming (MPF) conditions, especially on good practices for biosecurity.
New applicants, he said, are also required to submit a written application to the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) for the purpose of inspection and advice.
“We have approved a 233-ha area in Sungai Selabi, Selangau in Sibu to set up a large-scale commercial pig farming area (PFA).
“We are currently identifying entrepreneurs for the PFA.
“When fully operational, it has the potential to produce as many as 250,000 live porkers (young pigs raised and fattened for food ) per year,” he said.
He was responding to a question from Tebedu assemblyman Dr. Simon Sinang Bada on the government’s efforts and plans to increase pork supply in Sarawak during Q&A session in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
In addition, Martin said, the government has identified another site in Samarakan, Bintulu to be developed as a new PFA.
“We have also received an application from the private sector to use its own site to develop a commercial pig farming area.
“The application will be processed and evaluated based on the guidelines for the establishment of a MPF,” he added.
