November 8, 2024
Sarawak, Malaysia projects US$341 million annual revenue from swine industry by 2030
Sarawak, Malaysia anticipates generating at least MYR 1.5 billion (US$341 million) in additional annual revenue from the swine industry by 2030, according to Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development.
Dr Rundi expressed confidence in achieving this target, attributing it to the establishment of a new Pig Farming Area (PFA) at Sungai Selabi. The facility, designed with a capacity of 150,000 Standing Pig Population (SPP) per year, spans 575 acres and is expected to accommodate 12,000 sows as parent stock. This will make it the third-largest swine farm in Sarawak.
"The farm will incorporate advanced biosecurity and environmental management practices," Dr Rundi stated at the ground-breaking ceremony. "Lessons from the recent African Swine Fever (ASF) epidemic have guided the development of this facility, which will set new standards in efficiency and sustainability, positioning Sarawak at the forefront of agricultural development in Malaysia."
He also encouraged Best Pork Sdn Bhd, the operator of the farm, to engage the local community by sourcing feedstock, such as tapioca and cassava, from local suppliers. Dr Rundi added that involving the local workforce in training initiatives could create opportunities for those interested in swine farming.
Best Pork, known for its production of chicken and broiler eggs, is now venturing into pig farming. Dr Rundi highlighted the potential benefits of this partnership, particularly for young entrepreneurs in the area. "With Best Pork's experience and expertise, local youth can gain valuable skills in pig farming, which is poised to grow in this region."
Dr Rundi expressed optimism that initiatives like this could lead to economic improvement for rural communities, with a goal of achieving MYR 15,000 (US$3,416) in monthly income per household by 2030. This aligns with Sarawak's plans to commercialise agribusiness fully, with a focus on lifting B40 rural households out of poverty.
"This project can play a significant role in poverty eradication," he said. "Access to technology and proper training has been a challenge, but as farmers become adept in agribusiness, reaching our targets becomes feasible."
Best Pork's chief executive officer, Richard Ngu, shared that the farm, which requires an estimated MYR 300 million (US$68.3 million) investment, is expected to commence sales by early 2027.
- Borneo Post
