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KUCHING, Aug 16: The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Sarawak has implemented a temporary suspension on the issuance of import permits for cattle and buffalo from Australia following the detection of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in the affected animals.
Department director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud stated that this permit suspension will take immediate effect and will remain in place until the containment of the epidemic is verified.
“We will not issue import permits for Australian livestock until the LSD issue is effectively resolved,” he said in a news report by TVS yesterday.
However, Dr Adrian said a shipment of cattle is expected to arrive on Aug 24 which upon arrival will undergo thorough examinations, including the collection of samples and a 30-day quarantine period.
“If the animals are found to be free from LSD, they will then be authorised for distribution among local farmers,” he explained.
Last Thursday, the Australian media reported that both Malaysia and Indonesia have imposed temporary restrictions on cattle and buffalo imports due to the detection of LSD in these animals.
However, the exact scope of the impact on Australian exports as a result of Malaysia’s decision remains undisclosed.
Meanwhile, Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (M-FICORD) Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom assured that these import restrictions will not disrupt the supply of meat within the region.
“No, it will not affect our supply,” he replied when asked about the potential for a shortage of meat supply in Sarawak.
Dr Rundi emphasised the paramount importance of adhering strictly to protocols in the handling of farm animals.
Drawing a parallel with the management of African Swine Fever (ASF), he underscored the significance of biosecurity measures.
“Therefore it is important that we educate farmers involved in agriculture that it is not just planting or breeding, it extends to the protection of agricultural products as well,” he pointed out. — DayakDaily
