By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 23: The proposed pig farm in Selangau is expected to rear up to 125,000 pigs, with an annual production output of at least 250,000 porkers.
Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Martin Ben, informed that approximately 10 hectares of land have been cleared, with infrastructure works began early this year.
“A local company has been appointed as the operator in collaboration with the Sarawak Land Development Board (SLDB) to develop the Selangau Pig Farming Area (PFA) at Sungai Slabi,” he said during the question-and-answer session at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting on Friday (May 23).
He added that the project will be implemented in three phases, incorporating modern technology, closed-house systems, advanced biosecurity measures, zero-discharge practices, and biogas facilities to meet international standards and requirements.
Martin was responding to a query from Tamin assemblyman Ir Christopher Gira Sambang regarding the progress of the Selangau pig farming project.
He further highlighted that a site suitability study had been conducted, and the project site was approved by the Sarawak Planning Authority (SPA) on Feb 22, 2021.
This followed a series of dialogues and meetings led by the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) in collaboration with the Selangau District Office, local community leaders including penghulu and village chiefs in the Sungai Slabi area, as well as consultations with relevant agencies.
Given the scale of operations, Martin said the Selangau Pig Farming Area (PFA) will generate numerous job opportunities that will benefit the local communities.
“In addition, there will be various business opportunities for suppliers, sub-contractors, and service providers along the supply chain — provided that biosecurity requirements are strictly adhered to,” he added. — DayakDaily
