KUCHING, May 16: The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has responded to recent misinformation circulating in the media, clarifying that they have never issued any notice or directive instructing unlicensed bird nest operators or swiftlet farmers to suspend their operations.
On the contrary, SFC emphasised that the organisation has been actively advising operators to apply for the necessary licenses, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations outlined in the Wild Life Protection Ordinance, 1998 and advocating for the sustainable management of the bird’s nest industry.
“It is important to note that the law covers a licensed operator, and SFC encourages all operators to obtain the required licenses to operate legally,” SFC said in a statement posted on its social media today.
This came following a group of more than 50 unlicensed swiftlet house owners in the Sibu Division staging a peaceful demonstration at Medan Commercial Centre, Jalan Wong King Huo of Sibu yesterday (May 15), alleging that they have been told by SFC to stop operations and appealing to the government to look into their predicament as many have lost their source of income.
SFC also clarified that the recent reports of suspects being detained were associated with individuals purchasing from illegal sources, and an ongoing investigation is being conducted on this matter.
With that, SFC also refuted claims that the enforcement operation has resulted in the suspension of all licensed traders involved in the buying and selling of bird nests in Sarawak.
“SFC is firmly against such illegal activities and recognises the negative impact on the bird’s nest industry. The protection of Sarawak’s invaluable wildlife resources is of SFC’s utmost importance for environmental sustainability as outlined in Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.”
To demonstrate its commitment to industry regulation, SFC has issued 491 licenses to date. However, a ground survey conducted by the corporation revealed the existence of over 800 unlicensed operators. SFC is taking appropriate measures in collaboration with the Birds Nest Association to address these cases.
With that, SFC strongly encourages all bird nest operators to join the Birds Nest Associations, as membership grants access to the latest updates in industry regulations.
“These associations also serve as a platform for operators to voice their concerns, file complaints, and offer suggestions, facilitating effective communication between the industry and SFC.”
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to this cause, SFC pointed out that throughout 2021 and 2022, the corporation has engaged in multiple dialogues with bird nest operators, the Birds Nest Associations and the public in various locations, including Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, Miri, and Saratok.
These dialogues aimed to provide guidance on licensing requirements for swiftlet farms and promote adherence to SFC guidelines. Local elected representatives, chairpersons of Birds Nest Associations, and representatives of relevant government agencies were present during these sessions.
The bird’s nest operators participated actively in these dialogues, familiarising themselves with the applicable rules, regulations, and requirements for applying for various licenses.
During the dialogues, SFC and the Birds Nest Associations agreed to work together to achieve mutual understanding on various industry-related issues such as noise pollution, health and diseases, and economic issues. — DayakDaily
