October 7, 2024

Malaysia to locally export 300 tonnes of processed chicken to Sabah

Malaysia's Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) has announced plans to export approximately 300 tonnes of processed chicken annually from Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah, with a projected budget of MYR 3 million (US$701,000), The Edge Malaysia reported.

FAMA chairman Aminuddin Zulkipli stated that the first shipment, consisting of 12 tonnes of processed chicken valued at MYR 110,000 (US$25,700), was dispatched. The initiative aims to address the demand for processed chicken in Sabah, which currently relies heavily on imports from Thailand and China.

"This effort aligns with the recent amendment to the FAMA Act 1965 (Act 141), which authorises FAMA to manage the marketing of livestock products," Aminuddin said. He noted that the amendment enables the agency to promote both agricultural and livestock products more effectively, benefitting farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs.

A ceremony to mark the first shipment was held at the FAMA office in Melaka, attended by FAMA director general Abdul Rashid Bahri and Melaka director Nor Azhar Abdul Hamid.

The processed chicken shipment to Sabah will be delivered via sea route, a process expected to take approximately two weeks, subject to customs approvals. Aminuddin further mentioned that the price of processed chicken for Sabah consumers would be 5% lower than the current market rate of MYR 12.40 (US$2.90) per kg, with potential for further price reductions as demand grows.

The processed chicken will be distributed through FAMA's retail outlets across Sabah and to wholesalers. "We hope this initiative will provide more convenience and alternatives for Sabah consumers, who have largely depended on imported supplies," Aminuddin said.

He added that the export initiative also aims to strengthen cooperation between FAMA and industry stakeholders, including poultry producers and farmers in Peninsular Malaysia, but emphasised that it is not intended to dominate the export market in Sabah. Instead, it is designed to inspire and encourage Sabah importers to remain competitive and engaged in supplying chicken to the market.

-      The Edge Malaysia