June 12, 2023

 

No authority for Sabah, Malaysia veterinary department to shut down illegal pig farm

 

 

There is no existing law that empowers Veterinary Services Department of Sabah, Malaysia, to force a shutdown of an illegal pig farm located in Tamparuli.

 

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan, who is Sabah's Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Ministry, said that legal action had already been taken against the farm, resulting in a court-imposed fine for operating without a proper license under Rule 3(1) Control of Livestock Activities (Pig) Rules 2008.

 

The current regulations, however, do not authorise the DVS to close the farm.

 

"I understand this may be frustrating for many and we are working tirelessly to resolve the situation,' said Dr. Kitingan. "We are aware of the limitations of existing laws and are considering necessary changes in legislation to ensure stricter control over such activities in the future.

 

"This includes empowering the DVS (Sabah Veterinary Services Department) with the authority to close farms that fail to adhere to regulations. We also acknowledge the need for higher penalties as a deterrent for non-compliance.

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Dr. Kitingan said that DVS is coordinating with other relevant agencies to address concerns raised by those affected by the illegal pig farm. He added that the Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Ministry was in discussion with other agencies, including the Environment Department, Sabah Town and Regional Planning Department and the Land and Survey Department to implement a holistic solution to the issue.

 

He stated that he believed that a coordinated approach would be the most effective way to manage such challenges.

 

He also urged all stakeholders to abide by the rules and regulations set out by the authorities while waiting for the construction of the Pig Farming Area (PFA) in Sabah's central Tongod district.

 

The PFA is designed to accommodate the relocation of farms.

 

- The Star