Tuesday December 29, 2009
The Star
By MARTIN CARVALHO and ALLISON LAI
MALACCA: Swiftlet breeders operating within the historic city’s World Heritage Site heritage zones can breath a sigh of relief — the state has decided to defer the Dec 31 deadline for them to vacate the area.
The reprieve is possible because state authorities are still waiting for guidelines on swiftlet breeding at the 18th century Dutch-styled homes in the city’s core heritage zones.
State Rural Development and Agriculture Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Hidhir Abu Hasan said the situation in Malacca was different from other parts of the country because of heritage concerns.
“Swiftlet breeding and bird’s nest harvesting are regulated by the Agriculture Department and the Veterinary Services Department.
“However, we also have to consider the heritage factor because there are breeders who operate within the heritage zones,” he said.
The state decided to defer the Dec 31 deadline until the Heritage Department issued the guidelines, he said, adding that plans for a proposed relocation site for the affected operators were also on hold.
There are some 100 swiftlet breeders registered with the Malacca Bird’s Nest Merchants Association, 17 of them operating in the heritage zones.
Meanwhile, Malacca Historic City Council mayor Datuk Yusof Jantan said no new licence would be issued for those intending to convert their homes into bird breeding places in the heritage zones.
He noted that the city’s heritage zones were of particular concern to heritage authorities as they belonged to the world in general owing to its WHS status.
Malacca Bird’s Nest Merchants Association president John Chen Joon Onn said he was relieved to learn of the deferred deadline.
“The members in the heritage zones have been worried as their status remained unclear over the last several months despite several meetings with officials here.
“They were told to wait but no deadline was given,” he said.
He hoped that the Heritage Department would allow the present operators to remain in the area as a way to preserve the city’s swiftlet population.
“The birds have been a part of the historic city’s skyline over the past few centuries, even before the streets were built.
“If we get rid of them, we will also be destroying part of the city’s living heritage,” he said.
Locally harvested bird’s nests can fetch between RM1,500 and RM5,000 per kg depending on quality.
Bird’s nest harvesting has spawned a thriving industry, including manufacturing of canned drinks for the local and export markets.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Regulate, not ban swiftlet breeding, Penang urged
Tuesday December 29, 2009
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) is urging the Penang Government to manage and regulate the business instead of closing it down, its president Carole Loh said the association was always ready to work with the state government and the authorities for a win-win solution.
“The state should consider bird nest as a natural resource and exploit its potential instead of stunting its growth,” she said.
Loh also said bird houses should not be singled out as destroying the heritage quality of the interior of buildings because for buildings other than those in Class 1 such as Khoo Kongsi, owners are required to ensure that only the facade maintains its heritage features.
“The bird nest business in the inner city has managed to restore and rehabilitate at least 8.3% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings following the repeal of the Rent Control Act in 2000,” she said.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had on Thursday criticised the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders saying that the move would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) is urging the Penang Government to manage and regulate the business instead of closing it down, its president Carole Loh said the association was always ready to work with the state government and the authorities for a win-win solution.
“The state should consider bird nest as a natural resource and exploit its potential instead of stunting its growth,” she said.
Loh also said bird houses should not be singled out as destroying the heritage quality of the interior of buildings because for buildings other than those in Class 1 such as Khoo Kongsi, owners are required to ensure that only the facade maintains its heritage features.
“The bird nest business in the inner city has managed to restore and rehabilitate at least 8.3% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings following the repeal of the Rent Control Act in 2000,” she said.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had on Thursday criticised the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders saying that the move would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Swiftlets part of inner city’s heritage, say breeders
Sunday December 27, 2009
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Swiftlets have been part of inner George Town even before the area was granted Unesco World Heritage status, according to Association of Swiftlet Nest Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh.
“These birds are Penang’s ‘living heritage’, and the fact that George Town was granted the status despite their existence means they have no impact on Unesco’s decision,
“It is not fair for the state government to force the breeders to move when they were permitted to operate under the 2005 guidelines for the Application of Licence for Birds Nest Industry, Penang,” she said yesterday.
Loh was commenting on Friday’s report stating that the one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December would jeopardise George Town’s heritage status.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had said that the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
However, Loh explained that it was a misconception that swiftlets’ droppings would destroy the facade of heritage buildings as they only defecated inside the bird houses.
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Swiftlets have been part of inner George Town even before the area was granted Unesco World Heritage status, according to Association of Swiftlet Nest Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh.
“These birds are Penang’s ‘living heritage’, and the fact that George Town was granted the status despite their existence means they have no impact on Unesco’s decision,
“It is not fair for the state government to force the breeders to move when they were permitted to operate under the 2005 guidelines for the Application of Licence for Birds Nest Industry, Penang,” she said yesterday.
Loh was commenting on Friday’s report stating that the one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December would jeopardise George Town’s heritage status.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had said that the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
However, Loh explained that it was a misconception that swiftlets’ droppings would destroy the facade of heritage buildings as they only defecated inside the bird houses.
Friday, December 25, 2009
PHT: Nay to more time for breeders
Friday December 25, 2009
The Star
By WINNIE YEOH
THE one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December will jeopardise George Town’s heritage status and its living heritage.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution said the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines as building guidelines and by-laws would be violated.
She explained that a swiftlet breeding house required the gutting of its interior that would destroy the heritage quality.
It was reported recently that the state executive council made the decision in its meeting on Dec 16.
Picture above: file photo of swiftlets returning to roost at dusk in a pre-war building in Penang.
Cultural Heritage Advisory Team educationist Janet Pillai said a research conducted by Universiti Sains Malaysia and PHT showed that there were some 141 swiftlet breeding houses in the heritage core zone.
“These numbers do not include those in the buffer zone,” she said.
“Of the 141, 116 are heritage shophouses, 23 commercial buildings and two of unknown status.
“Only 26 are operating with licences and from October last year to this October, the Penang Municipal Council’s Building Department had issued 30 notices.
“There were eight proposals to demolish the illegal structures but only two were demolished,” she said.
She added that a report complete with statistics would be sent to the state and the National Heritage Department.
Pillai said the breeding houses usually required indoor pools to maintain humidity. This posed a serious dengue threat from mosquitos breeding in the pools while the noise from electrical tweeters was a nuisance.
Also, rodents and vermins thrived in such an environment.
“A harvest from an active bird house could rake in about RM30,000 each time,” she added.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
One more year
Wednesday December 23, 2009
The Star
SWIFLET breeders in Penang can continue their operation for another year as the state government has decided to extend the moratorium on the breeders till December next year.
State Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state executive council made the decision in its meeting on Dec 16.
In a statement, he said the state Veterinary Services Department and the Town and Country Planning Department were still preparing guidelines on the National Swiflet Industry.
“The state government has been advised to postpone the implementation of the guidelines until the Cabinet approves the National Swiflet Industry guidelines,” he said.
In December last year, the state government announced that the breeders could continue their operation for another year as it has extended the three-year moratorium which would expire at the end of the month.
State Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs committee chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim said the extension would enable the state to review the current industry policies and guidelines.
He said breeders in George Town’s heritage area must stop playing the swiftlet song recordings and also tear down all illegal extensions during the period.
The Star
SWIFLET breeders in Penang can continue their operation for another year as the state government has decided to extend the moratorium on the breeders till December next year.
State Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state executive council made the decision in its meeting on Dec 16.
In a statement, he said the state Veterinary Services Department and the Town and Country Planning Department were still preparing guidelines on the National Swiflet Industry.
“The state government has been advised to postpone the implementation of the guidelines until the Cabinet approves the National Swiflet Industry guidelines,” he said.
In December last year, the state government announced that the breeders could continue their operation for another year as it has extended the three-year moratorium which would expire at the end of the month.
State Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs committee chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim said the extension would enable the state to review the current industry policies and guidelines.
He said breeders in George Town’s heritage area must stop playing the swiftlet song recordings and also tear down all illegal extensions during the period.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Guidelines On Swiftlet Farming To Go To Cabinet Early Next Year
lDecember 22, 2009 21:57 PM
Bernama
SERDANG, Dec 22 (Bernama) -- The uniform guidelines on swiftlet farming is expected to be tabled to the Cabinet early next year.
Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar said the guidelines, prepared by the Veterinary Services Department, had been completed and just waiting for the right time to be tabled to the Cabinet.
"We are also waiting for feedback from the relevant ministries," he told reporters after opening the "Usahawan Tani Muda Jaya" programme at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park here today.
Noh was commenting on the progress of the guidelines, dubbed "1GP" to tackle the problems concerning the licencing of swiftlet farms in urban areas.
It is learnt that only the Health Ministry had yet to give feedback on the guidelines.
Other ministries involved in the issue were Housing and Local Government Ministry and Natural Resources and Environment Ministry.
The problem concerning the licencing of swiftlet farms was reported to have hampered the edible swiftlet nest industry which had an annual turnover of RM1 billion, with China as its main market.
The licencing problem was more obvious in Sarawak as its Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1988 prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
SERDANG, Dec 22 (Bernama) -- The uniform guidelines on swiftlet farming is expected to be tabled to the Cabinet early next year.
Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar said the guidelines, prepared by the Veterinary Services Department, had been completed and just waiting for the right time to be tabled to the Cabinet.
"We are also waiting for feedback from the relevant ministries," he told reporters after opening the "Usahawan Tani Muda Jaya" programme at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park here today.
Noh was commenting on the progress of the guidelines, dubbed "1GP" to tackle the problems concerning the licencing of swiftlet farms in urban areas.
It is learnt that only the Health Ministry had yet to give feedback on the guidelines.
Other ministries involved in the issue were Housing and Local Government Ministry and Natural Resources and Environment Ministry.
The problem concerning the licencing of swiftlet farms was reported to have hampered the edible swiftlet nest industry which had an annual turnover of RM1 billion, with China as its main market.
The licencing problem was more obvious in Sarawak as its Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1988 prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Bid To Smuggle Bird's Nest Products To Malaysia Foiled
December 16, 2009 19:14 PM
Bernama
NEW DELHI, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Two Sri Lankans who attempted to smuggle bird's nest products to Malaysia were arrested by customs officers at the Bandaranaike International airport in Sri Lanka Tuesday.
About 15,000 Wehilihiniya (Sri Lankan edible swiftlet swallow) bird's nest products weighing 44kg, were found in three bags belonging to the suspects, reported the Daily Mirror.
The consignment was worth about RM357,000.
"The suspects who entered the airport were seated near the entrance. They ran away when they saw us, but were apprehended by security officers and Customs officials," Customs deputy director Mali Piyasena told the newspaper.
He said the suspects were remanded until Dec 29, this year.
According to the Customs department, one of the suspects was detained last August for trying to smuggle out 38kg of Wehilihiniya bird's nest products worth nearly RM300,000.
He was fined and released.
This is the second incident in recent months where attempts to smuggle out the delicacies from the country to Southeast Asian capitals were foiled.
Last August, customs officers at the same airport arrested a Sri Lankan and seized 35kg of bird's nest products, of the Colocalia unicolor species.
The seized consignment, which was bound for Bangkok, was worth about RM200,000.
These indigenous species are facing extinction in the island state and exports or smuggling of such bird's nest products are prohibited under Sri Lanka's flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance 1937.
Bird's nests are in great demand in several Asian countries where they are used to produce traditional medicine or served as exotic food in restaurants.
In Hong Kong, a bowl of bird's nest soup could easily cost about US$60 (RM210)
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
NEW DELHI, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Two Sri Lankans who attempted to smuggle bird's nest products to Malaysia were arrested by customs officers at the Bandaranaike International airport in Sri Lanka Tuesday.
About 15,000 Wehilihiniya (Sri Lankan edible swiftlet swallow) bird's nest products weighing 44kg, were found in three bags belonging to the suspects, reported the Daily Mirror.
The consignment was worth about RM357,000.
"The suspects who entered the airport were seated near the entrance. They ran away when they saw us, but were apprehended by security officers and Customs officials," Customs deputy director Mali Piyasena told the newspaper.
He said the suspects were remanded until Dec 29, this year.
According to the Customs department, one of the suspects was detained last August for trying to smuggle out 38kg of Wehilihiniya bird's nest products worth nearly RM300,000.
He was fined and released.
This is the second incident in recent months where attempts to smuggle out the delicacies from the country to Southeast Asian capitals were foiled.
Last August, customs officers at the same airport arrested a Sri Lankan and seized 35kg of bird's nest products, of the Colocalia unicolor species.
The seized consignment, which was bound for Bangkok, was worth about RM200,000.
These indigenous species are facing extinction in the island state and exports or smuggling of such bird's nest products are prohibited under Sri Lanka's flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance 1937.
Bird's nests are in great demand in several Asian countries where they are used to produce traditional medicine or served as exotic food in restaurants.
In Hong Kong, a bowl of bird's nest soup could easily cost about US$60 (RM210)
-- BERNAMA
Friday, December 11, 2009
Swiftlet industry in Sarawak ruffles feathers
Friday December 11, 2009 MYT 12:39:28 PM
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The edible swiftlet nest industry in this country is a highly lucrative one with the annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
However, a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of the swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against the idea of having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But places like Sarawak, though the swiftlet farms are forbidden in towns, still has to find a solution for more than 1,500 illegal swiftlet farms. Any attempt to eradicate the illegal swiftlet farms will bring negative impact to the industry.
So what is the best option in solving this problem to ensure that the effort to boost the industry is not derailed? The licensing issue cropped up in October last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary and raised many questions on the way the exercise was carried out.
During the exercise the swiftlet chicks protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 were left to die in the nests that were confiscated by the authorities. Those annoyed with the move even posted the video on the chicks' fate on the popular video sharing website Youtube.
The action taken by the local authorities has certainly ruffled some feathers, especially the swiftlet farmers.
Thus the Swiftlet Merchant Association in Mukah requested Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to help find a solution. The same request from the counterparts in Sibu and Sarikei followed suit.
The bottom line is that the farm owners wanted to continue operations in the existing premises with most of them being shoptlots.
But the local authorities are steadfast with their stand. Despite the edible swiftlet nest's huge commercial potential, Sarawak's 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves and this has made things difficult for the industry.
The director of Sarawak's Forestry Department who is also the Wildlife Controller for Sarawak Datuk Len Talif Salleh stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the existing laws.
Len Talif pointed out about 100 licenses have been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
"Most of the licenses approved are for the "oldplayers" who conform to the prerequisites.
"The rest were rejected as their proposed swiftlet farms are in towns," he said adding that enforcement measures would be taken against illegal swiftlet farms.
The licenses were issued for swiftlet farming in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of the swiftlet farms in agricultural areas. Nonetheless, the industry views the issuance of the licence as a positive development when in May, only two of the more than 1,500 swiftlet farms in the state were licensed.
Swiftlet farming also needs approval from agencies like the Land and Survey Department, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the local authorities.
And the good news is that the state government is to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu respectively with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
However, many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
Thus this scepticism has prompted a big number of swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns.
The swiftlet nest entrepreneurs also hope to adopt guidelines like the Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) for the swiftlets, so that they will be allowed to ply their trade within towns as done by their counterparts in Peninsula.
"We will follow this guideline," noted the protem chairman for the Sarikei Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Association Wong Hua Ting, which is in opposition to the state government's stand that the swiflet farming should only be carried out at agricultural areas or the proposed ecopark.
Swiftlet farming in populated areas could create pandemonium among the public especially when there are diseases involving this species of bird.
The Veterinary Services Department (VSD) has conducted more than 5,000 tests on the birds and have confirmed that the swiflet are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease.
The department is also preparing the guidelines on swiftlet farming and the draft proposals will be forwarded to the Steering Committee for the National Swiftlet Industry on Dec 14. The guideline known as "1GP" makes it compulsory for swiftlet breeding premises to be registered with department.
However, before the guideline could be adopted by the local authorities, it would be brought to the attention of the National Council on Local Government chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which is expected to meet March next year.
"The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner," said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
Regarding the guideline, Len Talif noted that the Sarawak state government is ready to adopt it as long as it does not contradict with the state ordinance which would be continuously enforced.
He also gave assurance that in future the nests would not be confiscated and instead a compound will be issued and only the equipment used will be confiscated.
This development is seen as a positive indication pertaining to enforcement but this does not mean it has opened the doors for all to start swiftlet farms without authorisation.
The government wants to see 100,000 swiftlet farms producing 500 tonnes of the bird's nest annually worth RM5 billion by 2020.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought after in China and Arab with the prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilogram. Thus the solution for this licensing issue is highly pertinent and all parties involved should work hand in hand to ensure that the edible bird nest industry remains vibrant and the nation stands at par with Indonesia and Thailand, the leading producers. - Bernama
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The edible swiftlet nest industry in this country is a highly lucrative one with the annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
However, a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of the swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against the idea of having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But places like Sarawak, though the swiftlet farms are forbidden in towns, still has to find a solution for more than 1,500 illegal swiftlet farms. Any attempt to eradicate the illegal swiftlet farms will bring negative impact to the industry.
So what is the best option in solving this problem to ensure that the effort to boost the industry is not derailed? The licensing issue cropped up in October last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary and raised many questions on the way the exercise was carried out.
During the exercise the swiftlet chicks protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 were left to die in the nests that were confiscated by the authorities. Those annoyed with the move even posted the video on the chicks' fate on the popular video sharing website Youtube.
The action taken by the local authorities has certainly ruffled some feathers, especially the swiftlet farmers.
Thus the Swiftlet Merchant Association in Mukah requested Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to help find a solution. The same request from the counterparts in Sibu and Sarikei followed suit.
The bottom line is that the farm owners wanted to continue operations in the existing premises with most of them being shoptlots.
But the local authorities are steadfast with their stand. Despite the edible swiftlet nest's huge commercial potential, Sarawak's 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves and this has made things difficult for the industry.
The director of Sarawak's Forestry Department who is also the Wildlife Controller for Sarawak Datuk Len Talif Salleh stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the existing laws.
Len Talif pointed out about 100 licenses have been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
"Most of the licenses approved are for the "oldplayers" who conform to the prerequisites.
"The rest were rejected as their proposed swiftlet farms are in towns," he said adding that enforcement measures would be taken against illegal swiftlet farms.
The licenses were issued for swiftlet farming in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of the swiftlet farms in agricultural areas. Nonetheless, the industry views the issuance of the licence as a positive development when in May, only two of the more than 1,500 swiftlet farms in the state were licensed.
Swiftlet farming also needs approval from agencies like the Land and Survey Department, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the local authorities.
And the good news is that the state government is to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu respectively with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
However, many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
Thus this scepticism has prompted a big number of swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns.
The swiftlet nest entrepreneurs also hope to adopt guidelines like the Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) for the swiftlets, so that they will be allowed to ply their trade within towns as done by their counterparts in Peninsula.
"We will follow this guideline," noted the protem chairman for the Sarikei Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Association Wong Hua Ting, which is in opposition to the state government's stand that the swiflet farming should only be carried out at agricultural areas or the proposed ecopark.
Swiftlet farming in populated areas could create pandemonium among the public especially when there are diseases involving this species of bird.
The Veterinary Services Department (VSD) has conducted more than 5,000 tests on the birds and have confirmed that the swiflet are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease.
The department is also preparing the guidelines on swiftlet farming and the draft proposals will be forwarded to the Steering Committee for the National Swiftlet Industry on Dec 14. The guideline known as "1GP" makes it compulsory for swiftlet breeding premises to be registered with department.
However, before the guideline could be adopted by the local authorities, it would be brought to the attention of the National Council on Local Government chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which is expected to meet March next year.
"The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner," said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
Regarding the guideline, Len Talif noted that the Sarawak state government is ready to adopt it as long as it does not contradict with the state ordinance which would be continuously enforced.
He also gave assurance that in future the nests would not be confiscated and instead a compound will be issued and only the equipment used will be confiscated.
This development is seen as a positive indication pertaining to enforcement but this does not mean it has opened the doors for all to start swiftlet farms without authorisation.
The government wants to see 100,000 swiftlet farms producing 500 tonnes of the bird's nest annually worth RM5 billion by 2020.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought after in China and Arab with the prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilogram. Thus the solution for this licensing issue is highly pertinent and all parties involved should work hand in hand to ensure that the edible bird nest industry remains vibrant and the nation stands at par with Indonesia and Thailand, the leading producers. - Bernama
Dilemma over RM1bil swiftlet nest trade
Saturday December 12, 2009
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The swiftlet nest industry is highly lucrative with an annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
But a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But in Sarawak where there are over 1,500 such farms operating illegally in towns, any attempt to eradicate them will impact negatively on the industry.
The licensing issue cropped up last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary.
Furthermore, the Sarawak’s 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance also prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
Sarawak’s Forestry Department director Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the laws.
Len Talif pointed out that only about 100 licenses had been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
“Most of the licenses approved are for the ‘old-players’ who conform to the prerequisites,” he said.
All of the licenses were issued for swiftlet farms in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of them in agricultural areas.
The good news is, the state government plans to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
But many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
This has prompted many swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns, although this could create potential problem involving health issues.
Checks by the Veterinary Service Department which had carried out 5,000 tests on the birds confirmed that so far they are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease, but it is preparing a guideline making it compulsory for farms to be registered with the authority.
“The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner,” said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants’ Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought in China and Arab with prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilo.
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The swiftlet nest industry is highly lucrative with an annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
But a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But in Sarawak where there are over 1,500 such farms operating illegally in towns, any attempt to eradicate them will impact negatively on the industry.
The licensing issue cropped up last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary.
Furthermore, the Sarawak’s 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance also prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
Sarawak’s Forestry Department director Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the laws.
Len Talif pointed out that only about 100 licenses had been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
“Most of the licenses approved are for the ‘old-players’ who conform to the prerequisites,” he said.
All of the licenses were issued for swiftlet farms in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of them in agricultural areas.
The good news is, the state government plans to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
But many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
This has prompted many swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns, although this could create potential problem involving health issues.
Checks by the Veterinary Service Department which had carried out 5,000 tests on the birds confirmed that so far they are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease, but it is preparing a guideline making it compulsory for farms to be registered with the authority.
“The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner,” said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants’ Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought in China and Arab with prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilo.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Local authority plans to look into ways to legalise swiftlet breeders
Friday December 4, 2009
By ELAN PERUMAL
THE Kuala Selangor District Council is hoping to collect more than RM100,000 on licensing fee from swiftlet breeders in the district.
The council has set up a task force comprising council officials and professionals to look into ways of licensing the more than 100 breeders.
Councillor K. N. Chandran said the council was looking into the possibility of collecting RM1,000 on annual licence fee from each breeder.
By doing so, he said, the council hoped to increase its revenue as well as control the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“Currently, the breeders are carrying out the activity at freely as they are not licensed.
“The task force will liase with the state government on how to legalise the breeders,’’ he said, adding that state was now drafting regulations on breeding of swiftlets.
Under the licensing proposal, Chandran said, the task force was also supposed to identify suitable sites to move all the breeders to a centralised venue.
He added that the issue of swiftlets were hotly discussed during its full board meeting last month.
He said there had been numerous complaints from residents on the indiscriminate breeding of swiftlets at residential and commercial premises.
“Many of the councillors have expressed concerns over the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“We feel that the indiscriminate breeding is highly inconvenient for the residents and the birds may even pose a health hazard to people,’’ he added,
StarMetro had earlier highlighted the presence of numerous swiftlet houses in Kuala Selangor and Batang Berjuntai.
It reported that the breeders had conducted illegal extension of premises in order to turn them into swiftlet houses.
By ELAN PERUMAL
THE Kuala Selangor District Council is hoping to collect more than RM100,000 on licensing fee from swiftlet breeders in the district.
The council has set up a task force comprising council officials and professionals to look into ways of licensing the more than 100 breeders.
Councillor K. N. Chandran said the council was looking into the possibility of collecting RM1,000 on annual licence fee from each breeder.
By doing so, he said, the council hoped to increase its revenue as well as control the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“Currently, the breeders are carrying out the activity at freely as they are not licensed.
“The task force will liase with the state government on how to legalise the breeders,’’ he said, adding that state was now drafting regulations on breeding of swiftlets.
Under the licensing proposal, Chandran said, the task force was also supposed to identify suitable sites to move all the breeders to a centralised venue.
He added that the issue of swiftlets were hotly discussed during its full board meeting last month.
He said there had been numerous complaints from residents on the indiscriminate breeding of swiftlets at residential and commercial premises.
“Many of the councillors have expressed concerns over the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“We feel that the indiscriminate breeding is highly inconvenient for the residents and the birds may even pose a health hazard to people,’’ he added,
StarMetro had earlier highlighted the presence of numerous swiftlet houses in Kuala Selangor and Batang Berjuntai.
It reported that the breeders had conducted illegal extension of premises in order to turn them into swiftlet houses.
'Tap swiftlets potential'
NST
2009/12/04
A STATE assemblyman yesterday proposed a novel way to help sundry shop operators adversely affected by the influx of hypermarkets.
In debating the state 2010 Budget, Tee Siew Kiong (BN-Pulai Sebatang) said the government could kill two birds with one stone by allowing those affected to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels for bird nest farming.
He made the suggestion following the closure of many sundry shops which had failed to compete with hypermarkets, whose number was mushrooming in the state.
"Sundry shop operators stand to lose when pitched against hypermarkets as the latter have the capital to buy stocks in bulk and resell them at a much lower price than sundry shops," he said.
By allowing and assisting the operators to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels, Tee said this would allow them to continue to earn a decent living.
"Bird's nest has a huge and lucrative market in China, Hong Kong and other international places, so I urge the government to give it special attention and tap its potential," he said.
Tee said he was thankful to the state government for bringing the matter to the Federal Government's attention.
However, he said there was a need to have guidelines to govern swiftlet hotels which have become the subject of criticism by some residents because of noise pollution and hygiene problems.
He said banks had also become aware of the potential of the industry and had started to finance such ventures.
"It could be very beneficial to the state economy as Malaysia exported RM1 billion worth of bird's nest last year, which was equivalent to five per cent of the world market for the product," he said.
Tee also urged the government to simplify bird's nest exports and swiftlet hotel licensing so that the industry could grow even faster in the state.
2009/12/04
A STATE assemblyman yesterday proposed a novel way to help sundry shop operators adversely affected by the influx of hypermarkets.
In debating the state 2010 Budget, Tee Siew Kiong (BN-Pulai Sebatang) said the government could kill two birds with one stone by allowing those affected to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels for bird nest farming.
He made the suggestion following the closure of many sundry shops which had failed to compete with hypermarkets, whose number was mushrooming in the state.
"Sundry shop operators stand to lose when pitched against hypermarkets as the latter have the capital to buy stocks in bulk and resell them at a much lower price than sundry shops," he said.
By allowing and assisting the operators to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels, Tee said this would allow them to continue to earn a decent living.
"Bird's nest has a huge and lucrative market in China, Hong Kong and other international places, so I urge the government to give it special attention and tap its potential," he said.
Tee said he was thankful to the state government for bringing the matter to the Federal Government's attention.
However, he said there was a need to have guidelines to govern swiftlet hotels which have become the subject of criticism by some residents because of noise pollution and hygiene problems.
He said banks had also become aware of the potential of the industry and had started to finance such ventures.
"It could be very beneficial to the state economy as Malaysia exported RM1 billion worth of bird's nest last year, which was equivalent to five per cent of the world market for the product," he said.
Tee also urged the government to simplify bird's nest exports and swiftlet hotel licensing so that the industry could grow even faster in the state.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Malaysia To Produce RM5 Billion Worth Of Swiftlet Nests By 2020
November 25, 2009 12:39 PM
Bernama
JOHOR BAHARU, Nov 25 Nov (Bernama) -- Malaysia is expected to have 100,000 swiftlet nest farms by 2020 and capable of producing 500 tonnes of birds' nests, worth RM5 billion, year for the world market.
Agriculture and Agrobased Industry Minister Datuk Noh Omar said last year, 250 tonnes of birds' nests worth RM1 billion were produced from 50,000 swiftlet farms in the country.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants the swiftlet nest farming to be a big industry in the country and the ministry will work to achieve it," he said when opening a seminar on "Iskandar Malaysia-China Bird Nest Business Opportunity 2009 here on Tuesday's night.
Noh said one of the Key Performance Index (KPI) of the ministry was to make bird's nest farming one of the important industry in Malaysia.
He said that on April 1 this year, the Cabinet agreed that the Veterinary Service Department be the lead agency in the development of the country's swiftlet nest industry.
However, he said, involvement of the private sector was needed to ensure the industry could develop.
He said the ministry had allocated RM300 million through the Agro Bank for the industry's development and that the fund had bee utilised.
"Private investors should play their role to develop the swiftlet nest industry and not rely on the government alone for fund," he added.
Bernama
JOHOR BAHARU, Nov 25 Nov (Bernama) -- Malaysia is expected to have 100,000 swiftlet nest farms by 2020 and capable of producing 500 tonnes of birds' nests, worth RM5 billion, year for the world market.
Agriculture and Agrobased Industry Minister Datuk Noh Omar said last year, 250 tonnes of birds' nests worth RM1 billion were produced from 50,000 swiftlet farms in the country.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants the swiftlet nest farming to be a big industry in the country and the ministry will work to achieve it," he said when opening a seminar on "Iskandar Malaysia-China Bird Nest Business Opportunity 2009 here on Tuesday's night.
Noh said one of the Key Performance Index (KPI) of the ministry was to make bird's nest farming one of the important industry in Malaysia.
He said that on April 1 this year, the Cabinet agreed that the Veterinary Service Department be the lead agency in the development of the country's swiftlet nest industry.
However, he said, involvement of the private sector was needed to ensure the industry could develop.
He said the ministry had allocated RM300 million through the Agro Bank for the industry's development and that the fund had bee utilised.
"Private investors should play their role to develop the swiftlet nest industry and not rely on the government alone for fund," he added.
Birds raid Batang Berjuntai
Saturday October 31, 2009
The Star
Story and photos by ELAN PERUMAL
SOME shoplots in Batang Berjuntai town in Kuala Selangor has been turned into homes for swiflets by breeders who seem to be capitalising on every available space for their activity.
Besides turning empty shoplots into swiflet breeding grounds, these breeders have also converted the back portion of shophouses as homes for the birds.
Almost all the shophouses along Jalan Kuala Selangor, which is the main road, have become swiflets breeding grou-nds.
There are several multi-storey buildings with massive extensions at the back where breeders conduct their activity.
Besides the town, the Bestari Jaya business centre has been also conqured by the swiflet breeders.
The breeders have converted the first floor of the vacant two-storey shoplots into breeding grounds. Some have also built an additional floor on the rooftop of the buildings to lure more birds.
A few of these breeders have also put signboards outside the building claiming that they are members of the swiflet breeding association.
Restaurant operator Rosli Sukiman, 45, said the swiflets were causing a lot of inconvenience to the people in the area.
Besides the noise pollution, he said, their droppings were also found all over the place, including on the vehicles that were parked outside the shops.
“Many of the vacant shoplots in the township have been turned into swiflet breeding spots,’’ he said
Another trader, who wished to be remain anonymous, said the presence of the swiflets was not good for the image of the town.
He said more and more business operators were closing their business and moving to other areas due to the situation.
“I hope the authorities will find a way to stop breeders from operating from shophouses,’’ he added.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Call To Accredit National Standard In New Fields
November 19, 2009 17:30 PM
Bernama
BANGI, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- The Department of Standards Malaysia has been urged to identify and develop national standard in new fields especially those with high commercial value.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili said this would support the efforts of turning Malaysia into a high-income country.
He cited fields such as halal, nanotechnology, biotechnology, information security, food security, medical devices, construction products and swiftlet nest, which should be focused on.
Noting that the target of the National Standards Strategy and Action Plan was to have 6,000 Standard Malaysia products by 2020, he said 94.25 per cent or 5,655 products had been accredited up to Sept 30.
"This means the Department of Standards Malaysia need to accredit 345 more products to achieve the target," he said at the National Standards and Accreditation award presentation here on Wednesday.
Earlier, he witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Department of Standards Malaysia and the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health to forge a collaboration in healthcare.
Bernama
BANGI, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- The Department of Standards Malaysia has been urged to identify and develop national standard in new fields especially those with high commercial value.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili said this would support the efforts of turning Malaysia into a high-income country.
He cited fields such as halal, nanotechnology, biotechnology, information security, food security, medical devices, construction products and swiftlet nest, which should be focused on.
Noting that the target of the National Standards Strategy and Action Plan was to have 6,000 Standard Malaysia products by 2020, he said 94.25 per cent or 5,655 products had been accredited up to Sept 30.
"This means the Department of Standards Malaysia need to accredit 345 more products to achieve the target," he said at the National Standards and Accreditation award presentation here on Wednesday.
Earlier, he witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Department of Standards Malaysia and the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health to forge a collaboration in healthcare.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Not easy to make the right choice
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
SWITLFETS make their nests using interwoven strands of their saliva.
The gelatinous and semi-transparent substance is much sought after by the Chinese for its rich nutrients that are said to enhance one’s health and beauty.
They are easily available in most Chinese medicine halls as bottled nests in sugary soup and boxes of whole nests.
Malaysian Federation of Associations of Bird’s Nests Merchants secretary Mah Swee Lye, shared some tips on how to choose the bird’s nests.
photo: A swiftlet sitting on a nest.
First and foremost, no two bird’s nests are the same.
“If they are genuine ones made by the swiftlets, their shapes and sizes vary,” he said.
Secondly, they retain a fishy smell.
“Flies are attracted to the pile of nests we harvested, showing that genuine bird’s nests really do have an odour,” Mah said.
Thirdly, the whiter it is, the more cautious one should be because it might have been bleached.
“It’s okay if the nest contains tiny bits of feather — this is a sure sign that the nest is made by swiftlets,” Mah said.
While it is not easy to differentiate genuine and fake bird’s nests just by looking, he advised consumers to shop for reliable brands.
Industry players want more govt support
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
By THO XIN YI
SWIFTLET farming is gaining popularity in the country with many entrepreneurs setting up houses for the birds.
In Selangor alone, there are about 2,000 “hotels” for the swiftlets to build their nests.
One striking feature of the multistorey buildings is the absence of doors and ventilation holes.
Malaysian Federation of Associations of Bird’s Nests Merchants secretary Mah Swee Lye said the industry made its presence felt in the country about 10 years ago.
“Swiftlets began inhabiting vacant shoplots, to the surprise of the owners.
“Gradually, we picked up the know-how from our Indonesian counterparts, who have been in the business for at least 80 years, and brought the knowledge back here,” he said.
Currently, Indonesia still tops the bird’s nest supply chain by catering to 80% of the demand worldwide, followed by Malaysia, Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
“The competition is intense. A swiftlet farmer needs both expertise and luck to succeed,” Mah said.
The owners of the bird houses do not actually rear the swiftlets.
Instead, they only set up the ‘hotel’ with the right temperature (28°C) and humidity (85%) to provide a suitable habitat, and then install the swiftlet tweeters to attract the birds.
“The swiftlets usually leave the house in the morning to hunt for food, and then return in the evening.
“They can live in the same house for generations,” Mah said.
He added that harvesting the nests did not deprive the birds of a place to stay.
“Swiftlets build nests only when it is time to lay eggs and once the birds learn to fly, the nests can safely be harvested.
“The birds do not sleep in the nests but perch vertically on the wooden planks.
“If their nests have been harvested, they will make new ones when it is time for another reproductive cycle,” Mah said.
The noise and hygiene issues of the industry often draw criticism and objections from the public, but Mah said a responsible farmer could eliminate these potential problems.
“The speakers should be positioned in such a way that they face the sky instead of the opposite buildings, and they should be switched off at night.
“A bird house should also be cleaned every two weeks to clear the faeces but some operators have the misconception that the smell attracts more birds,” he said.
Mah said the bird droppings made good fertiliser.
Nevertheless, the federation is pushing for the new guidelines to be implemented to achieve a win-win situation for the operators and the public.
“The federation’s chairman, Datuk Beh Heng Seong, has recently launched the guidelines in Kedah.
“One of the clauses is that new bird houses can only be constructed in light industrial areas, agricultural land and city outskirts,” Mah said.
He also hoped that the federal government could support and legalise the industry nationwide as the operators had difficulty in obtaining bank loans to start this business.
The Star
By THO XIN YI
SWIFTLET farming is gaining popularity in the country with many entrepreneurs setting up houses for the birds.
In Selangor alone, there are about 2,000 “hotels” for the swiftlets to build their nests.
One striking feature of the multistorey buildings is the absence of doors and ventilation holes.
Malaysian Federation of Associations of Bird’s Nests Merchants secretary Mah Swee Lye said the industry made its presence felt in the country about 10 years ago.
“Swiftlets began inhabiting vacant shoplots, to the surprise of the owners.
“Gradually, we picked up the know-how from our Indonesian counterparts, who have been in the business for at least 80 years, and brought the knowledge back here,” he said.
Currently, Indonesia still tops the bird’s nest supply chain by catering to 80% of the demand worldwide, followed by Malaysia, Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
“The competition is intense. A swiftlet farmer needs both expertise and luck to succeed,” Mah said.
The owners of the bird houses do not actually rear the swiftlets.
Instead, they only set up the ‘hotel’ with the right temperature (28°C) and humidity (85%) to provide a suitable habitat, and then install the swiftlet tweeters to attract the birds.
“The swiftlets usually leave the house in the morning to hunt for food, and then return in the evening.
“They can live in the same house for generations,” Mah said.
He added that harvesting the nests did not deprive the birds of a place to stay.
“Swiftlets build nests only when it is time to lay eggs and once the birds learn to fly, the nests can safely be harvested.
“The birds do not sleep in the nests but perch vertically on the wooden planks.
“If their nests have been harvested, they will make new ones when it is time for another reproductive cycle,” Mah said.
The noise and hygiene issues of the industry often draw criticism and objections from the public, but Mah said a responsible farmer could eliminate these potential problems.
“The speakers should be positioned in such a way that they face the sky instead of the opposite buildings, and they should be switched off at night.
“A bird house should also be cleaned every two weeks to clear the faeces but some operators have the misconception that the smell attracts more birds,” he said.
Mah said the bird droppings made good fertiliser.
Nevertheless, the federation is pushing for the new guidelines to be implemented to achieve a win-win situation for the operators and the public.
“The federation’s chairman, Datuk Beh Heng Seong, has recently launched the guidelines in Kedah.
“One of the clauses is that new bird houses can only be constructed in light industrial areas, agricultural land and city outskirts,” Mah said.
He also hoped that the federal government could support and legalise the industry nationwide as the operators had difficulty in obtaining bank loans to start this business.
Entrepreneurs want a one-stop centre
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
By OH ING YEEN
A one-stop centre for issuing licences and permits relating to the bird’s nest industry will benefit entrepreneurs if it is given the green light.
This was one of the resolutions discussed by the Asia Bird’s Nest Conference recently.
Currently, the farmers have to apply for a premises licence from the local council to build the bird house and then apply for a harvesting licence from the Wildlife Department.
Photo: Learning experience: The participants were also shown different types of bird’s nests at the event.
More than 250 participants from various states took part in the two-day swiftlet workshop held at the Paya Indah Wetlands, Dengkil.
It was the third and last in a series of workshops that began in 2008.
The objective of the workshop was to get feedback from participants who had ventured into the industry and to discuss the problems they face and come up with solutions.
Other resolutions that were discussed include:
·URGING the government to prepare complete guidelines for the industry;
lResearch collaboration bet-ween the government and industry players should be created or continued and government consultancy services provided, if needed; and
lrecognisING the industry as an expanding one to market the products through a standardised brand name.
Halim Kepol, 44, from Batu Pahat, got to know about the industry from friends and the Internet and has spent RM135,000 building a bird house.
“I’m interested in this industry as I feel it has the potential to succeed.
“The workshop provided us a platform to discuss swiftlet-related issues and I’ve learnt a lot from the workshops,” he said.
Another participant Abu Hussin, a retiree, said the swiftlet business was booming in Alor Gajah, Malacca.
“It’s a good opportunity as there is guidance and aid provided for swiftlet nest entrepreneurs.
“Moreover, there’s not much competition and the risk is low,” he said.
Perhilitan director-general Datuk Abdul Rasid Samsudin said Perhilitan’s role was mainly in conservation.
When asked for his comments about Sahabat Alam Malaysia’s call to ban swiftlet farming, he said the industry should not be discouraged but should be controlled.
“It has to be done on agricultural land, away from the urban areas,” he said.
A total of 16 public awareness programmes have been carried out from 2008 till June this year.
Three-month freeze on new licences in Sepang
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAB) will carry out a three-month Environmental Impact Study on swiftlets and its impact on bird strikes, Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) Town Planning director Yunus Kashib said after the MPSp fullboard meeting recently.
“MAB will do a comparison study of different airports such as those in East Malaysia as well as Indonesia, where the swiftlet industry is booming.
“There were two incidents where swiftlets were the cause, but only a DNA report, which will take three months, will determine which species was the actual culprit.
“The current licence holders can continue their activities but the council will not issue new licences for the time being,” he said.
The Star
MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAB) will carry out a three-month Environmental Impact Study on swiftlets and its impact on bird strikes, Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) Town Planning director Yunus Kashib said after the MPSp fullboard meeting recently.
“MAB will do a comparison study of different airports such as those in East Malaysia as well as Indonesia, where the swiftlet industry is booming.
“There were two incidents where swiftlets were the cause, but only a DNA report, which will take three months, will determine which species was the actual culprit.
“The current licence holders can continue their activities but the council will not issue new licences for the time being,” he said.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Agro sector a main gainer with RM6bil allocation
Saturday October 24, 2009
The Star
THE agriculture sector remains one of the top recipients with a RM6bil allocation:
·RM149mil to develop food farming industry such as fruits, vegetables, organic farming, herbs, seaweed and swiftlet nests;
The Star
THE agriculture sector remains one of the top recipients with a RM6bil allocation:
·RM149mil to develop food farming industry such as fruits, vegetables, organic farming, herbs, seaweed and swiftlet nests;
Friday, October 23, 2009
Foundation for new economic model
Friday October 23, 2009
The Star
THE Budget 2010 lays the foundation for the new economic model and the formulation of the 10th Malaysia Plan.
It focuses on moving the nation to a high-income economy by strengthening the private sector as an engine of growth, creating skillful and talented workforce, intensifying research and development activities and promoting innovation and creativity.
........................
..............................
The main thrust of agriculture development is to enable the sector to become a major source of economic growth. And the emphasis will be on aquaculture, swiftlet bird’s nest production, floriculture, deep-sea fishing and seaweed production.
The Star
THE Budget 2010 lays the foundation for the new economic model and the formulation of the 10th Malaysia Plan.
It focuses on moving the nation to a high-income economy by strengthening the private sector as an engine of growth, creating skillful and talented workforce, intensifying research and development activities and promoting innovation and creativity.
........................
..............................
The main thrust of agriculture development is to enable the sector to become a major source of economic growth. And the emphasis will be on aquaculture, swiftlet bird’s nest production, floriculture, deep-sea fishing and seaweed production.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Swiftlet Farms to Stay
By OH ING YEEN
14 OCt 2009
THERE is a boom in swiftlet farming in Sepang, but the authorities are concerned that some of these birds may get in the way of aircraft using the KL International Airport (KLIA).
The Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp), which had stopped issuing permits for swiftlet breeding in the municipality, had directed the breeders to move 40km away from KLIA as there have been cases of birds getting sucked into the engines when they fly too close to the aircraft.
The Sepang Swiftlets Merchants Association (SSMA), meanwhile, argue that the birds which get tangled in the aircraft engines are not swiftlets, thus there is no basis for the swiftlet farmers to relocate.
MPSp president Azizan Mohamad Sidin said the laws pertaining to swiftlet breeding were clear and the farmers must comply with the ruling.
“The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) guidelines state that swiftlet farmers must operate outside the 40km radius of the KL International Airport (KLIA).
“It is dangerous when the birds fly into the engines especially during take-off as it can cause the aircraft to crash,” said Azizan.
ISSMA secretary Mah Swee Lye said during a meeting held last week with MPSp and Malaysia Airport Berhad (MAB), it was decided that the existing swiftlet farmers did not have to relocate.
“The airport authorities suspect that the birds getting tangled into aircraft were swiftlets but there was no proof from Perhilitan to back their claims.
“It will take between two and three years for a DNA report to determine the species of birds that get tangled in the engines.
“They should get proof and provide data on how many accidents have been caused by swiftlets before asking the farmers to relocate,” he said.
Business as usual: An aircraft flying over a swiftlet farm near Sungai Pelek, Sepang.
According to Mah, there are about 100 swiftlet breeders in Sepang and Kuala Langat.
“The existing farmers in Sepang will carry on with their farming but there is a temporary freeze on permits for new breeders.
“In Palembang and Surabaya, Indonesia, there are more swiftlet farmers there but there are no complaints,” he said.
According to information provided by the council, MAB will conduct an in-depth study on the effects of swiftlet breeding on KLIA. They will appoint consultants and present the study to the airport authorities.
MAB will also collect data on birds getting tangled in the engines of aircraft in Kuching and Sibu and also airports in Indonesia.
With the cooperation of the association, the council will obtain data of the exact location of swiftlet farms in Sepang.
This is to identify the number of swiftlets and its colonies in Sepang.
Meanwhile, MPSp councillor Lau Weng Chan felt that swiftlet farming should not be allowed near airports.
“It is too risky. And it won’t be good if foreigners know that swiftlets or any other birds are near the airports,” she said.
Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) director-general Datuk Azharuddin Abdul Rahman said while it had yet to be proven whether swiftlets were the species of birds getting tangled in aircraft around the KLIA area, it might contribute to the risk.
“In aviation, we have to take all precautionary measures. Bird strike is treated seriously because it causes damage to aircraft.
“Migratory birds are one of the factors especially when they fly from south to north. ” he said.
14 OCt 2009
THERE is a boom in swiftlet farming in Sepang, but the authorities are concerned that some of these birds may get in the way of aircraft using the KL International Airport (KLIA).
The Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp), which had stopped issuing permits for swiftlet breeding in the municipality, had directed the breeders to move 40km away from KLIA as there have been cases of birds getting sucked into the engines when they fly too close to the aircraft.
The Sepang Swiftlets Merchants Association (SSMA), meanwhile, argue that the birds which get tangled in the aircraft engines are not swiftlets, thus there is no basis for the swiftlet farmers to relocate.
MPSp president Azizan Mohamad Sidin said the laws pertaining to swiftlet breeding were clear and the farmers must comply with the ruling.
“The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) guidelines state that swiftlet farmers must operate outside the 40km radius of the KL International Airport (KLIA).
“It is dangerous when the birds fly into the engines especially during take-off as it can cause the aircraft to crash,” said Azizan.
ISSMA secretary Mah Swee Lye said during a meeting held last week with MPSp and Malaysia Airport Berhad (MAB), it was decided that the existing swiftlet farmers did not have to relocate.
“The airport authorities suspect that the birds getting tangled into aircraft were swiftlets but there was no proof from Perhilitan to back their claims.
“It will take between two and three years for a DNA report to determine the species of birds that get tangled in the engines.
“They should get proof and provide data on how many accidents have been caused by swiftlets before asking the farmers to relocate,” he said.
Business as usual: An aircraft flying over a swiftlet farm near Sungai Pelek, Sepang.
According to Mah, there are about 100 swiftlet breeders in Sepang and Kuala Langat.
“The existing farmers in Sepang will carry on with their farming but there is a temporary freeze on permits for new breeders.
“In Palembang and Surabaya, Indonesia, there are more swiftlet farmers there but there are no complaints,” he said.
According to information provided by the council, MAB will conduct an in-depth study on the effects of swiftlet breeding on KLIA. They will appoint consultants and present the study to the airport authorities.
MAB will also collect data on birds getting tangled in the engines of aircraft in Kuching and Sibu and also airports in Indonesia.
With the cooperation of the association, the council will obtain data of the exact location of swiftlet farms in Sepang.
This is to identify the number of swiftlets and its colonies in Sepang.
Meanwhile, MPSp councillor Lau Weng Chan felt that swiftlet farming should not be allowed near airports.
“It is too risky. And it won’t be good if foreigners know that swiftlets or any other birds are near the airports,” she said.
Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) director-general Datuk Azharuddin Abdul Rahman said while it had yet to be proven whether swiftlets were the species of birds getting tangled in aircraft around the KLIA area, it might contribute to the risk.
“In aviation, we have to take all precautionary measures. Bird strike is treated seriously because it causes damage to aircraft.
“Migratory birds are one of the factors especially when they fly from south to north. ” he said.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Difficult to Implement 40KM no swiftlet farms zone
Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) president Azizan Mohd Sidin said although the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) guidelines state that swiftlet farmers must be outside the 40km radius of the KL International Airport (KLIA), it would be difficult to implement.
Currently, swiftlet farmers carry out their activities in shoplots and abandoned buildings in Sungei Pelek and in villages in Bagan Lalang, both areas in close proximity to the international airport.
“We will be having a discussion with the airport authorities on how best to solve the problem as swiftlet farming is going to be a safety hazard,’’ he told the board.
Azizan said if the farmers were forced to follow the guidelines, most of them would be pushing themselves into areas outside the Sepang jurisdiction like Kuala Langat and Port Dickson.
He said the farmers had to make a living but the council would definitely not allow the activities to be conducted in abandoned buildings and shoplots as the guidelines say that it had to be done on agriculture land.
Currently, swiftlet farmers carry out their activities in shoplots and abandoned buildings in Sungei Pelek and in villages in Bagan Lalang, both areas in close proximity to the international airport.
“We will be having a discussion with the airport authorities on how best to solve the problem as swiftlet farming is going to be a safety hazard,’’ he told the board.
Azizan said if the farmers were forced to follow the guidelines, most of them would be pushing themselves into areas outside the Sepang jurisdiction like Kuala Langat and Port Dickson.
He said the farmers had to make a living but the council would definitely not allow the activities to be conducted in abandoned buildings and shoplots as the guidelines say that it had to be done on agriculture land.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Swiftlet hotels get time to go
2009/09/25
NST
By Jason Gerald John
MALACCA: Swiftlet breeders have until the end of the year to move their operations from the conservation zone in the centre of the city.
If the breeders in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Tengkera, Jalan Hang Jebat, Jalan Kampung Hulu, Jalan Laksamana and Jalan Kee Ann do not move on time, they will receive summonses and compound fines of not less than RM250.
Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) president Yusof Jantan said there were 24 swiftlet breeders operating within the conservation area.
"We have issued them notice to vacate the buildings.
"In order to assist them, MBMB has identified buildings and sites in Ujong Pasir, in Melaka Tengah district, and in Merlimau, Jasin."
He said the notices were issued last month, giving the breeders ample time to move.
"We hope the relocation will go on smoothly and without any trouble."
Yusof said the decision was made to ban swiftlet breeding in the city centre because the "hotels" are in the conservation area that earned Malacca its status a Unesco World Heritage Site.
NST
By Jason Gerald John
MALACCA: Swiftlet breeders have until the end of the year to move their operations from the conservation zone in the centre of the city.
If the breeders in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Tengkera, Jalan Hang Jebat, Jalan Kampung Hulu, Jalan Laksamana and Jalan Kee Ann do not move on time, they will receive summonses and compound fines of not less than RM250.
Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) president Yusof Jantan said there were 24 swiftlet breeders operating within the conservation area.
"We have issued them notice to vacate the buildings.
"In order to assist them, MBMB has identified buildings and sites in Ujong Pasir, in Melaka Tengah district, and in Merlimau, Jasin."
He said the notices were issued last month, giving the breeders ample time to move.
"We hope the relocation will go on smoothly and without any trouble."
Yusof said the decision was made to ban swiftlet breeding in the city centre because the "hotels" are in the conservation area that earned Malacca its status a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Kelantan is largest birds' nests producer
NST
2009/09/16
KOTA BARU: Unlike most other states, breeding swiftlets for birds' nests is licensed by the state authorities in Kelantan.
The state has become one of the largest producers of birds' nests in the country.
The centre of the industry lies here and in Kuala Krai and Tumpat. And a purpose-built township for rearing swiftlets is planned in Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan soon.
The annual licensing fee for a swiftlet building is RM1,000 for the first floor, and RM500 each for subsequent storeys.
Unlike most breeders, Ooi Siong Hwa has chosen not to breed swiftlets in town. He has built a breeding structure in the middle of a padi field in Tumpat.
He says that though the initial investment was high -- RM300,000 -- he expects excellent returns.
A kilogramme of high quality birds' nests fetches about RM7,000. Most are exported to Hong Kong and China.
Birds' nests have been used in Chinese cuisine for over 400 years, and are believed to have medicinal value.
2009/09/16
KOTA BARU: Unlike most other states, breeding swiftlets for birds' nests is licensed by the state authorities in Kelantan.
The state has become one of the largest producers of birds' nests in the country.
The centre of the industry lies here and in Kuala Krai and Tumpat. And a purpose-built township for rearing swiftlets is planned in Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan soon.
The annual licensing fee for a swiftlet building is RM1,000 for the first floor, and RM500 each for subsequent storeys.
Unlike most breeders, Ooi Siong Hwa has chosen not to breed swiftlets in town. He has built a breeding structure in the middle of a padi field in Tumpat.
He says that though the initial investment was high -- RM300,000 -- he expects excellent returns.
A kilogramme of high quality birds' nests fetches about RM7,000. Most are exported to Hong Kong and China.
Birds' nests have been used in Chinese cuisine for over 400 years, and are believed to have medicinal value.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Swiftlets marring neighbourhood in Klang
Story and photo by ELAN PERUMAL
RESIDENTS in Jalan Sepat 1, Teluk Pulai, Klang, are concerned over the swiftlet rearing activity that is going on at shophouses near their houses.
Besides feeling uncomfortable, the residents also fear that the birds may spread diseases.
They also claimed that the Klang Municipal Council (MPK) has turned a deaf ear to the numerous complaints that they had made.
Checks by StarMetro revealed that a three-storey building was located near the houses and the swiftlets were kept on the first and second floors of the building.
Awkward top: An unusual structure has been built on the rooftop of this three-storey building to accommodate the swiflets.
Loud speakers have been placed on the buildings to attract the swiflets into the shophouses through the back windows.
The houses are located behind the two blocks of shophouses that are facing Jalan Teluk Pulai.
A resident, identified only as Robert, said the value of the properties in the area had dropped due to the presence of the swiflets.
He said the neighbourhood had lost its serenity since the swiftlets came into the area some years ago.
“It only started with swiftlets at two lots but the number has grown to more than 10 shoplots over recent years.
“The operators of the business are making money at our expense and I don’t understand why the council is allowing this to happen,’’ he said.
Housewife Beng Lee, 49, said the activity caused noise pollution produced through the loud speakers that were on from 6am to 8.30pm daily.
She said the residents were tired of listening to the chirping of the birds.
“We are forced to keep our windows and doors closed at all times,’’ she said
Another resident, who only wished to be identified as Billy, said the presence of the birds also produced a stench.
He said the bird droppings were also marring the area and they were worried about health aspects
Friday, September 11, 2009
SWIFTLETS: No need to worry about bird flu
NST
2009/09/11
MOHD HAIZUL HO DFor the Secretary-General, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Putrajaya
THE Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) appreciates the concern over the health issues surrounding swiftlet hotels that were highlighted by T.C. Ti of Bentong ("A health hazard not many are aware of" -- NST, Sept 9).
The edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is protected under the Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 [Act 76].
It is widely distributed in Southeast Asia and is commonly mistaken for swallows.
The swiftlet is slightly smaller in size; free-flying, perching only at its nest and nowhere else.
This is one of the species which is known to have commercial value throughout the world.
The DWNP would like to clarify that the operation of bird houses is under the jurisdiction of local councils. However, the DWNP issues the harvesting, business and import/export licence.
The swiftlet is not a carrier of the bird flu disease, confirmed from the sampling conducted by the relevant agency.
Bird house operators practise cleanliness and systematic harvesting. If not properly managed or harvested, the swiftlets would not return to the bird house.
2009/09/11
MOHD HAIZUL HO DFor the Secretary-General, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Putrajaya
THE Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) appreciates the concern over the health issues surrounding swiftlet hotels that were highlighted by T.C. Ti of Bentong ("A health hazard not many are aware of" -- NST, Sept 9).
The edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is protected under the Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 [Act 76].
It is widely distributed in Southeast Asia and is commonly mistaken for swallows.
The swiftlet is slightly smaller in size; free-flying, perching only at its nest and nowhere else.
This is one of the species which is known to have commercial value throughout the world.
The DWNP would like to clarify that the operation of bird houses is under the jurisdiction of local councils. However, the DWNP issues the harvesting, business and import/export licence.
The swiftlet is not a carrier of the bird flu disease, confirmed from the sampling conducted by the relevant agency.
Bird house operators practise cleanliness and systematic harvesting. If not properly managed or harvested, the swiftlets would not return to the bird house.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Swiftlet farming will boost economy
THE Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) appreciates the concern highlighted in “It’s time to ban farming of swiftlets” (The Star, Aug 28).
Edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is currently protected under the Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 [Act 76]. It is widely distributed in the South-East Asian region and commonly mistaken for swallows.
The swiftlet is slightly smaller in size and is free flying, perching only at its nest and nowhere else.
This is one of the species which is known to have commercial value throughout the world. Due to that, many venture into this industry and bird-houses have mushroomed throughout peninsular Malaysia, especially in the urban areas.
In order to lure the swiftlets into the house, the bird-house operator will set up speakers playing bird sounds outside and inside the house.
Currently the DWNP, together with related agencies and with cooperation from Bird Nest Association, is revising the guidelines on time usage to play the audio.
A sampling conducted by a related agency shows that the swiftlet is not a carrier of the bird flu disease.
The bird-houses are regularly cleaned as the swiftlets prefer a clean environment. Bird-house operators also practise systematic harvesting of bird nests, done only when the fledglings have left the nest to fend for themselves.
Currently, the DWNP is conducting research under the 9th Malaysia Plan for the sustainable management and conservation on the species. The results will help the DWNP in conserving this species, and at the same time benefit Malaysians and the country’s economy.
DR AMERJIT SINGH,
For Secretary-General,
Natural Resources and Environment Ministry,
Putrajaya.
Edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is currently protected under the Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 [Act 76]. It is widely distributed in the South-East Asian region and commonly mistaken for swallows.
The swiftlet is slightly smaller in size and is free flying, perching only at its nest and nowhere else.
This is one of the species which is known to have commercial value throughout the world. Due to that, many venture into this industry and bird-houses have mushroomed throughout peninsular Malaysia, especially in the urban areas.
In order to lure the swiftlets into the house, the bird-house operator will set up speakers playing bird sounds outside and inside the house.
Currently the DWNP, together with related agencies and with cooperation from Bird Nest Association, is revising the guidelines on time usage to play the audio.
A sampling conducted by a related agency shows that the swiftlet is not a carrier of the bird flu disease.
The bird-houses are regularly cleaned as the swiftlets prefer a clean environment. Bird-house operators also practise systematic harvesting of bird nests, done only when the fledglings have left the nest to fend for themselves.
Currently, the DWNP is conducting research under the 9th Malaysia Plan for the sustainable management and conservation on the species. The results will help the DWNP in conserving this species, and at the same time benefit Malaysians and the country’s economy.
DR AMERJIT SINGH,
For Secretary-General,
Natural Resources and Environment Ministry,
Putrajaya.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
SWIFTLETS: Spare a thought for the birds
NST
2009/09/03
M.GANESHADEVA, Kuala Lumpur
IT is rather sad that in the frenzied rush to make a fortune from swiftlet nests, the welfare and well-being of the birds are often neglected ("Fortune nest" -- NST, Aug 23).
It is not wrong to collect the nests after the eggs have been hatched (after nesting for about five weeks) and the young swiftlets have been raised to maturity after a fledgling period of about three months. By then, the birds no longer need the nest.
Some swiftlet rearers, however, do not have the patience to wait that long and take the nests when the young swiftlets are not mature enough to fly or before the eggs are hatched, or even before the eggs are laid.
The birds should be allowed to live as natural a life as possible. It is cruel to take away the nest while the eggs or the young swiftlets are still in the nest because it causes undue anxiety and stress to the parents. Taking away the eggs and artificially hatching and feeding the young swiftlets is unnatural and cruel from an animal welfare standpoint.
The birds are unlike commercially reared broiler chicken, where the broodiness and mothering instincts have been eliminated through centuries of selective breeding. These are free-living wild birds with strong brooding and mothering instincts.
The male and female swiftlets, after mating, are paired for life (unless one of the pair dies earlier). Both help in building the nest and feeding the young swiftlets with insects. They are able to locate their individual nest in dark caves among thousands of other nests by using sonar.
More importantly, they are capable of feeling stress and anxiety when agitated. It is an offence under the Animal Protection Act 1960 to cause unnecessary pain or distress to an animal or bird.
Take the nest by all means after the birds have used and vacated the nests, but let them live as natural a life as possible as they would in the wild as a gratitude for the riches they bestow on you.
2009/09/03
M.GANESHADEVA, Kuala Lumpur
IT is rather sad that in the frenzied rush to make a fortune from swiftlet nests, the welfare and well-being of the birds are often neglected ("Fortune nest" -- NST, Aug 23).
It is not wrong to collect the nests after the eggs have been hatched (after nesting for about five weeks) and the young swiftlets have been raised to maturity after a fledgling period of about three months. By then, the birds no longer need the nest.
Some swiftlet rearers, however, do not have the patience to wait that long and take the nests when the young swiftlets are not mature enough to fly or before the eggs are hatched, or even before the eggs are laid.
The birds should be allowed to live as natural a life as possible. It is cruel to take away the nest while the eggs or the young swiftlets are still in the nest because it causes undue anxiety and stress to the parents. Taking away the eggs and artificially hatching and feeding the young swiftlets is unnatural and cruel from an animal welfare standpoint.
The birds are unlike commercially reared broiler chicken, where the broodiness and mothering instincts have been eliminated through centuries of selective breeding. These are free-living wild birds with strong brooding and mothering instincts.
The male and female swiftlets, after mating, are paired for life (unless one of the pair dies earlier). Both help in building the nest and feeding the young swiftlets with insects. They are able to locate their individual nest in dark caves among thousands of other nests by using sonar.
More importantly, they are capable of feeling stress and anxiety when agitated. It is an offence under the Animal Protection Act 1960 to cause unnecessary pain or distress to an animal or bird.
Take the nest by all means after the birds have used and vacated the nests, but let them live as natural a life as possible as they would in the wild as a gratitude for the riches they bestow on you.
No short-term gains from swiftlet farming
A reader wrote to The Star
I REFER to the various articles on swiftlet farming as well as letters from the CAP and Dennis Gong “Swiftlets are a real hygenic lot” (The Star, Sept 2).
Being an expert in swiftlet farming, I would like to give a few pointers.
The species Aerodramus fuciphagus do not litter their droppings. Their droppings are only within the birdhouse. Extensive droppings in many towns are not from these swiftlets but from mud swallows that make their nest underneath shophouses.
Indeed, swiftlets are hygienic and do not mix with other birds. The moment they fly out of the bird-house, they will not touch the ground until they return to the bird-house. Swiftlets also prey on harmful insects, like fruit flies etc, and can increase the yield of farmers and reduce the use of pesticides. They are natural pest control agents.
However, in the long term, it is important that swiftlet houses are not located in shophouses in town centres due to aesthetics and noise pollution. They should be stand-alone units within agricultural areas.
They should also be located about 40km away from airports as they could pose a danger to planes.
Apart from that, swiftlet houses should conform to good farming practices as outlined by the Ministry of Agriculture.
As swiftlet farming is now increasingly seen as a financial gold mine, there are a few pointers potential investors must understand.
One disturbing trend is the development of huge bird-house complexes in one location. These are sold as units to potential buyers on the claim that these bird-houses will be filled with birds within a short time.
It is very unlikely that such huge bird-houses of hundreds of units can be filled within a short time. It will take 10 to 20 years or more for these massive bird-houses to be filled due to the slow natural population growth of the swiftlets in that particular locality.
As such, potential investors should make in-depth studies and consult experts in swiftlet farming before investing as the failure rate is more than 70%. The million ringgit investment may yield zero returns.
Apart from that, there are other quick-get-rich schemes using swiftlet farming as a front for their scam. Swiftlet farming entails a low initial return of one to five years, peaking only in the seventh to 10th year.
As such, it is impossible for the operators to give immediate 3% to 5% returns per month.
NATURE LOVER,
Kuala Lumpur.
I REFER to the various articles on swiftlet farming as well as letters from the CAP and Dennis Gong “Swiftlets are a real hygenic lot” (The Star, Sept 2).
Being an expert in swiftlet farming, I would like to give a few pointers.
The species Aerodramus fuciphagus do not litter their droppings. Their droppings are only within the birdhouse. Extensive droppings in many towns are not from these swiftlets but from mud swallows that make their nest underneath shophouses.
Indeed, swiftlets are hygienic and do not mix with other birds. The moment they fly out of the bird-house, they will not touch the ground until they return to the bird-house. Swiftlets also prey on harmful insects, like fruit flies etc, and can increase the yield of farmers and reduce the use of pesticides. They are natural pest control agents.
However, in the long term, it is important that swiftlet houses are not located in shophouses in town centres due to aesthetics and noise pollution. They should be stand-alone units within agricultural areas.
They should also be located about 40km away from airports as they could pose a danger to planes.
Apart from that, swiftlet houses should conform to good farming practices as outlined by the Ministry of Agriculture.
As swiftlet farming is now increasingly seen as a financial gold mine, there are a few pointers potential investors must understand.
One disturbing trend is the development of huge bird-house complexes in one location. These are sold as units to potential buyers on the claim that these bird-houses will be filled with birds within a short time.
It is very unlikely that such huge bird-houses of hundreds of units can be filled within a short time. It will take 10 to 20 years or more for these massive bird-houses to be filled due to the slow natural population growth of the swiftlets in that particular locality.
As such, potential investors should make in-depth studies and consult experts in swiftlet farming before investing as the failure rate is more than 70%. The million ringgit investment may yield zero returns.
Apart from that, there are other quick-get-rich schemes using swiftlet farming as a front for their scam. Swiftlet farming entails a low initial return of one to five years, peaking only in the seventh to 10th year.
As such, it is impossible for the operators to give immediate 3% to 5% returns per month.
NATURE LOVER,
Kuala Lumpur.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Swallow breeders to move 40km away from airport
OH ING YEEN
at Sepang Municipal Council full board meeting
WHILE birds’ nests are considered a delicacy for some, swiftlets flying into the airplane’s engines as it takes off is a nuisance and a safety hazard.
According to Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) president Azizan Mohamad Sidin, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) guidelines state that swiftlet farmers must be outside the 40km radius of the KL International Airport (KLIA).
“It is dangerous when the birds fly into the engines as the planes take off as the planes may crash.
“The guidelines say that it has to be done on agriculture land. We won’t allow the activity in shoplots or abandoned buildings.
“There are those that are located within a 10km radius from the airport. We suggest that they relocate to Hulu Selangor, Kuala Selangor, or Sabak Bernam. We can’t be harsh on them because they have to make a living but we have the public safety in mind,” he said.
There will be a meeting with the members of the Sepang Swiftlet Entrepreneurs Association next week to discuss the matter.
at Sepang Municipal Council full board meeting
WHILE birds’ nests are considered a delicacy for some, swiftlets flying into the airplane’s engines as it takes off is a nuisance and a safety hazard.
According to Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) president Azizan Mohamad Sidin, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) guidelines state that swiftlet farmers must be outside the 40km radius of the KL International Airport (KLIA).
“It is dangerous when the birds fly into the engines as the planes take off as the planes may crash.
“The guidelines say that it has to be done on agriculture land. We won’t allow the activity in shoplots or abandoned buildings.
“There are those that are located within a 10km radius from the airport. We suggest that they relocate to Hulu Selangor, Kuala Selangor, or Sabak Bernam. We can’t be harsh on them because they have to make a living but we have the public safety in mind,” he said.
There will be a meeting with the members of the Sepang Swiftlet Entrepreneurs Association next week to discuss the matter.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Beauty: Benefits of bird’s nest
NST
2009/08/31
TO restore the skin strength and elasticity, and combat skin ageing, the new Nutox Oxyfusion range now includes top-grade bird’s nest and Nuroxygen (inspired by hyperbaric oxygen therapy).
Bird’s nest, famed for its health and beauty benefits, is rich in active glyco-protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, vitamins and minerals.
Along with collagen and active protein, bird’s nest helps in maintaining a youthful and radiant skin, and promoting skin renewal. The essence does not only prevent wrinkles but also shield the harmful effects from the environment.
The BNest Collagen, enveloped in Nuroxygen, enables the organic ingredient to break into the epidermis easily for maximum result, and simultaneously improve the skin structure, making it visibly firmer and stronger.
The result is a younger-looking and healthier skin as the Nutox Oxyfusion formula revives its natural smoothness to create a natural glow.
The Nutox Oxyfusion range includes cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, sun block, spot corrector and eye cream. It is available at selected retail outlets nationwide.
2009/08/31
TO restore the skin strength and elasticity, and combat skin ageing, the new Nutox Oxyfusion range now includes top-grade bird’s nest and Nuroxygen (inspired by hyperbaric oxygen therapy).
Bird’s nest, famed for its health and beauty benefits, is rich in active glyco-protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, vitamins and minerals.
Along with collagen and active protein, bird’s nest helps in maintaining a youthful and radiant skin, and promoting skin renewal. The essence does not only prevent wrinkles but also shield the harmful effects from the environment.
The BNest Collagen, enveloped in Nuroxygen, enables the organic ingredient to break into the epidermis easily for maximum result, and simultaneously improve the skin structure, making it visibly firmer and stronger.
The result is a younger-looking and healthier skin as the Nutox Oxyfusion formula revives its natural smoothness to create a natural glow.
The Nutox Oxyfusion range includes cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, sun block, spot corrector and eye cream. It is available at selected retail outlets nationwide.
Friday, August 28, 2009
It’s time to ban farming of swiftlets
S.M. MOHD IDRIS,
President, Sahabat Alam Malaysia. writes....
THE mushrooming and highly-lucrative swiftlet nests industry in peninsular Malaysia has led to public complaints without much response from the authorities.
The situation is bad as most of the swiftlet farms are located in shoplots and commercial areas.
Noisy recorders are installed to lure the swallows from dawn till late at night, causing disturbances to those living in the surrounding areas. The noise pollution is something the people in residential areas has to tolerate daily and it would be most annoying when exposed to the noise for days on end.
Under the local council guidelines, the loudspeakers should be positioned 60 degrees upwards and broadcasts of bird noises should not exceed 40 decibels, but the noise comes daily from 7am to late at night and it is the long exposure to this noise that upsets the public.
Regarding health hazards, there have been complaints from residents in Seberang Perai who suffered from rashes when insects from the nests come into contact with them.
In another case, hundreds of nearby residents located near a bird hotel in Kuala Terengganu also complained of itchiness, rashes and frequent colds.
Concerns over bird flu have been raised too. SAM would like to know that should bird flu strike, will all the swiftlets be exterminated during an outbreak?
Bird droppings will hasten the destruction of building materials, interior ornamentation and embellishments and mars the beautiful façade of heritage buildings. Moisture in an enclosed environment will also cause decay to timber ceilings, brick walls and plaster.
SAM expresses concern over the actual harvesting of the nests by collectors, the methods used and timing of harvests. Nests are removed when these are supposed to be left for the brood, depriving the birds of a chance to raise their young. So far, harvesting patterns of home farming of swiftlets are not well-documented by the authorities.
A question raised is whether there is any monitoring by the Wildlife Department during harvesting to ensure no killing of fledgelings.
In view of these problems, SAM would like to call for a ban on all farming of swiftlets. All species of swiftlets should be made totally protected under Schedule I of the Protection of Wildlife Act to prevent further exploitation of the birds’ nests.
President, Sahabat Alam Malaysia. writes....
THE mushrooming and highly-lucrative swiftlet nests industry in peninsular Malaysia has led to public complaints without much response from the authorities.
The situation is bad as most of the swiftlet farms are located in shoplots and commercial areas.
Noisy recorders are installed to lure the swallows from dawn till late at night, causing disturbances to those living in the surrounding areas. The noise pollution is something the people in residential areas has to tolerate daily and it would be most annoying when exposed to the noise for days on end.
Under the local council guidelines, the loudspeakers should be positioned 60 degrees upwards and broadcasts of bird noises should not exceed 40 decibels, but the noise comes daily from 7am to late at night and it is the long exposure to this noise that upsets the public.
Regarding health hazards, there have been complaints from residents in Seberang Perai who suffered from rashes when insects from the nests come into contact with them.
In another case, hundreds of nearby residents located near a bird hotel in Kuala Terengganu also complained of itchiness, rashes and frequent colds.
Concerns over bird flu have been raised too. SAM would like to know that should bird flu strike, will all the swiftlets be exterminated during an outbreak?
Bird droppings will hasten the destruction of building materials, interior ornamentation and embellishments and mars the beautiful façade of heritage buildings. Moisture in an enclosed environment will also cause decay to timber ceilings, brick walls and plaster.
SAM expresses concern over the actual harvesting of the nests by collectors, the methods used and timing of harvests. Nests are removed when these are supposed to be left for the brood, depriving the birds of a chance to raise their young. So far, harvesting patterns of home farming of swiftlets are not well-documented by the authorities.
A question raised is whether there is any monitoring by the Wildlife Department during harvesting to ensure no killing of fledgelings.
In view of these problems, SAM would like to call for a ban on all farming of swiftlets. All species of swiftlets should be made totally protected under Schedule I of the Protection of Wildlife Act to prevent further exploitation of the birds’ nests.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Booming industry or health hazard?
NST
2009/08/23
Thousands of bird 'motels' have opened across Malaysia to lure the swiftlets whose nests are harvested to make bird's nest soup, a costly delicacy in Chinese cuisine, writes M. JEGATHESAN
IN the heart of Klang, the owner of the Goldcourse Hotel has converted part of the multi-storey building into a swiftlet "motel".
To entice the swiflets to build their nests in the concrete structure -- and not their natural cave habitat -- a soundtrack of shrill bird noises, including mating calls, is blasted from speakers from dawn to dusk.
Nearby, other entrepreneurs have opened competing ventures by turning four-storey shophouses into bird havens, and the cacophony and shower of bird droppings is alienating those living and working nearby.
"The sound is so loud and irritating, and the bird droppings can be harmful to our health," said local resident Abdul Hamid Abdullah as he watched the swiflets dart in and out of the buildings.
"These birds build their nests in caves. That is where they should be."
Malaysia's swiftlet industry began in the 1980s but gained momentum after the 1997 Asian financial crisis when entrepreneurs converted the interiors of abandoned properties into bird motels.
Fans of the gelatinous soup, which is popular in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said it could stave off ageing, boost sex drive, prevent lung disease and enhance the complexion.
Kenneth Khoo, from the Small and Medium Industries Association in Penang, said the global trade in raw bird's nests was estimated at RM20 billion.
"Swiftlet farming in Malaysia is a sunrise industry. Demand far exceeds supply as more wealthy Chinese emerge," he said, adding that bird's nest soup remained a status-booster on business menus in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
But as the industry expands along the east and west coasts of peninsular Malaysia, opposition to the swiflet farms is growing louder and environmentalists are demanding a complete ban.
There are also allegations of cruelty as some "farmers" reputedly destroy chicks and fertilised eggs in order to harvest the nests at times when prices are high.
Conservation group Friends of the Earth has condemned the trade and called on the government to close down the proliferating swiftlet farms.
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"This rather impetuous booming industry has led to complaints from the public due to the nuisance, health hazards and the number of bird hotels coming up," said Mohamad Idris, president of the group's Malaysian branch.
"Collectors may not wait long enough for the young to fledge, often throwing the chicks onto the ground or leaving them to die after taking the nests.
"In view of the problems faced by many in the farming of swiftlets and from the welfare point of view of the birds, we would like to call for a ban on all farming of swiftlets." -- AFP
Mukhriz: Time to tap its potential
THE rearing of swiftlets should be made one of the industries in the country's agricultural sector because of its lucrative income, Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said.
He said the technology in the rearing of swiftlets had changed.
"The birds can be bred using the hatchery process and reared for its nest," he said after opening an association for agriculture and agro-based industry entrepreneurs and a swiftlet rearing project in Kulim last week.
He said such a project was being carried out by the association at Kampung Sungai Tengas, near Kulim.
Some 8,000 birds were being reared in the project which, when fully operational, was expected to yield an income of RM120,000 a month. -- Bernama
Home sweet home
By CHIN MUI YOON
OUT of 24 species of swiftlets in the world, only five are commonly sighted in Malaysia; of those, it is Aerodramus fuciphagus that produces the prized white nests. The other varieties do produce edible nests but they are often filled with impurities and don’t command as high a price.
Sarawak’s Niah Caves used to have the largest concentration of swiftlets. But over-harvesting has resulted in a drastic drop of nests, from a recorded 1.7 million in 1935 to a mere 65,000 in 2002, and even fewer today, according to swiftlet farming enthusiast, Dr Christopher Lim.
Since the 1980s, wild swiftlets have turned to manmade structures like abandoned buildings to house their young, as their natural habitat is lost to development – the earliest farmers became successful by default.
Then, Indonesia’s forest fires and the subsequent haze during the 1990s drove millions of swiftlets to Malaysia, and coastal towns like Sitiawan and Teluk Intan in Perak boomed with swiftlet farms and, today, have the largest concentration, averaging over 1,000 farms each.
Picture is of an unusual bird farm in Nibong Tebal, Penang, used to be a cinema. Those pipes sticking out are for ventilation. – Reuters
In 1996, after a visit to Indonesia organised under the auspices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna, Malaysia’s Wildlife and National Parks Department (or Perhilitan) concluded that commercial farming would be the best way to increase the dwindling number of swiftlets in Malaysia. From fewer than 50 farms in 1997, today there are thousands.
The way to attract these birds is to provide an environment that closely resembles the swiftlets’ natural habitat, which are traditionally caves. The right humidity and temperature are vital for the bird to feel at home; and if humidity is insufficient, nests won’t be able to cling to the walls.
Another vital factor is the appropriate sound system. Long range speakers must be positioned correctly and must sound the right chirps to attract birds from the surrounding area, and then another set of tweeters must get them to nest in the farm.
“The longer you keep the bird in the farm the higher the chances that it will build a nest,” explains Dr Lim. “You need the right external sounds to attract them into the area and soothing, internal sounds to draw them in.
“The sounds only need to be projected from 7am to 7pm – birds do not hear them at night.”
“You need to do everything right the first time, hence the importance of understanding how a farm works. The most successful farm is operated by you personally, not a consultant. And don’t be greedy; you only need to attract one bird a day! And you do not need multiple farms, as just one successful farm can enrich you for life.”
■ Information sourced from ‘Make Millions from Swiftlet Farming: A Definitive Guide’ by Dr Christopher Lim.
Swift fortunes await
Sunday August 23, 2009
By CHIN MUI YOON
By CHIN MUI YOON
The swiftlet that creates those much-in-demand edible nests are indigenous to this part of the world. We even have a long history of collecting the nests for consumption dating back to the last century. So why aren’t we doing as well as our neighbours in making money from this natural resource?
FORTUNES can be made harvesting the bounty of the earth or sea. But if you farm birds’ nests, your fortune lies in the skies.
Dr Christopher Lim with a load of freshly harvested birds’ nests that can fetch up to RM4,000, unprocessed. – Photos by ART CHEN / The Star
Every evening, such farmers all over the country eagerly turn their eyes upwards, hoping to see swiftlets entering the “caves” that are their farms, which are actually converted shoplots or custom-built bungalows.
The saliva produced by these swiftlets – of the species Aerodramus fuciphagus – to form their nests is considered one of the five elite foods highly prized by the Chinese; the others are abalone, fish maw, ginseng, and shark’s fin. All of these foods fetch lucrative prices.
In fact, while the price of gold and other commodities has fluctuated throughout the last century, the price of edible birds’ nests has simply grown steadily higher. From US$10 a kilo in 1975, prices soared to US$400 in 1995. In 2002, a kilo cost US$1,600 (RM5,600) and today, the nests can go for up to US$2,700 (RM9,450) a kilo!
The industry in Malaysia alone commands RM1bil annually, according to the 2007 Malaysian Swiftlet Farming Industry Report by Hameed Sultan Merican, former chairman of the agricultural and agro-based businesses sub-committee of the SMI Association of Penang.
The report notes that a kilogramme of top quality, unprocessed nests (which works out to about 90 to 120 nests) fetched between RM4,500 and RM6,000 in 2006. After processing, retail prices went as high as RM15,000 to RM25,000 per kilo.
It helps that China, the largest market for edible birds’ nests, cannot produce its own supply, as these non-migratory birds reside only in South-East Asia. Breeding them doesn’t work, as it results in genetic mutations.
Indonesia commands the lion’s share of the market at 70%, followed by Thailand at 20% with Malaysia trailing in at 6%.
The Malaysian Government has noted this promising market. Both Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his deputy, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, have encouraged entrepreneurs to venture into this industry.
Chairman of the Malaysian Federation of Associations of Birds Nests Merchants Datuk Beh Heng Seong says Malaysia has the potential to increase its current production level three to five times.
“Studies show that Indonesia is saturated,” he said at an interview last week. “Malaysia still has the capacity to grow.
“Prices fell by nearly half in November last year due to negative economic sentiments, but there’s still a strong demand in China. Whether they have ever consumed a bird’s nest or not, all Chinese know the words ‘birds’ nest’!”
Nests with baby swiftlets in them should be left alone so a new generation of birds will return to the farm to nest again. – Reuters
Universiti Putra Malaysia Assoc Prof (of the Nephrology Department) Dr Christopher Lim, 36, agrees. The kidney specialist became fascinated with swiftlet farming when he came across mention of it at an agricultural exhibition in Johor Baru in 2004.
“Malaysia can easily raise its market share, as we are located right in the middle of the swiftlets’ breeding grounds,” he says.
Dr Lim is now a noted swiftlet authority, author of the popular Make Millions from Swiftlet Farming: A Definitive Guide (Publisher: TrueWealth Sdn Bhd, ISBN: 9833364721), and presenter of well-attended seminars on the subject.
The doctor belongs to a new breed of farmer that enthusiastically advocates a more professional development of this industry led by farmers equipped with the correct knowledge and ethical practices.
“Swiftlet farming is perfectly legal after you’ve obtained permits from local councils and have attended a Veterinary Services Department course,” explains Dr Lim.
Farmers must also adhere to the department’s Good Animal Husbandry Practices Guide. Other rules apply, like using only non-residential areas and not using heritage buildings.
“A swiftlet landlord can generate RM10,000 to RM20,000 from a standard 20x70-foot (6m x 20m) shoplot by harvesting 2kg to 4kg of birds’ nests monthly!” says Dr Lim.
“But I would only encouage swiftlet farming if you’re hands-on and armed with the correct knowledge because the failure rate is 70% to 80%!”
A potential gold mine
The high risk of failure hasn’t deterred more people from venturing into the industry of late. Gone are the days when swiftlet farmers were retirees with free time. Many in today’s industry are educated professionals seeking an alternative or additional source of income.
A sign of this industry’s growing popularity here is the fact that Dr Lim’s monthly seminars, which he bases on research and observation, are always fully booked. Participants come from throughout Malaysia as well as from Indonesia, Taiwan, and Thailand, all hoping to unlock the secrets of swiftlet farming.
We attend one seminar where we meet a young IT engineer called Kent Ho who has flown in all the way from California.
“Swiftlet farming is a young but promising industry in my homeland of Vietnam,” he says. “I hope to start a farm in Danang, a coastal town south of Hanoi that has potential. It was hard getting solid information on starting out so I’m grateful for this seminar.”
Another participant is Malaysian Dr Mahmood Kechik, an urologist who is building a five-storey “bird bungalow” in his hometown of Kelantan.
“I’ve been monitoring the growth of swiftlet farming for four years and I’m convinced there’s potential. Previously, only royalty could enjoy this delicacy. Nowadays, every Chinese can consume birds’ nests, so there is a huge demand,” he says, adding with a laugh that, “studies show that birds’ nests can benefit pregnant mothers and are also an aphrodisiac!”
Dr Lim, perched on a ladder, using a paint scraper to gently lift up the edges of the nest until he can pluck it off the beam.
Manjung, a small town in Perak, has experienced an exponential boom in swiftlet farming; so much so that the world’s first custom-built accommodation for swiftlets was put up last year.
“We sold all 36 units, some even before we launched the project,” says Loke Yeu Loong, managing director of the Perak Swiftlet Eco Park, which was jointly developed by the Perak State Development Corp and Bio Research Centre (M) Sdn Bhd.
The 7m x 22m (25x75 foot) units, built into a three-storey structure, are priced at RM398,000 each; also available are 18 units of 18m x 32m (60x105 foot) three-storey, semi-detached houses costing RM678,000 each.
“We have identified new sites throughout Malaysia; one each in Pahang, Negri Sembilan, and Selangor; two in Johor; and three in Terengganu. We had thought of venturing into Thailand and Vietnam, but Malaysia will keep us busy for five years!”
Consumer concerns
Despite the viability of swiftlet farming, the industry is clouded in controversy in Malaysia. This is largely due to bad practices by ignorant and irresponsible farmers, and a prevailing idea that consuming birds’ nests is cruel and unhygienic.
Magazine editor Susie Chong, 34, recalls that she was ticked off by an irate reader after writing that she maintains good health and skin by eating birds’ nests.
“This lady angrily asked me, ‘How can you be so cruel as to eat birds’ nests? Where are the poor baby birds going to stay?’,” Chong says.
This is where ethical practices play their part, says Dr Lim.
It is actually in the farmer’s interest to not disturb a nest with young in it; swiflets, like turtles, have a habit of returning to the same place they were born in to breed. By ensuring baby birds grow up safely and leave the nest, a farmer can encourage several generations of the birds to nest in his farm.
What of hygiene concerns? As the birds do not defecate in the nests, and that their food source is insects, this really shouldn’t be a worry, says the doctor. Besides, to eat the nests, one has to double boil them.
Some people also have environmental concerns, as the swiflets are a protected species.
However, Dr Lim adds that farmers are actually doing their bit to preserve the birds by offering alternative breeding grounds to those in the wild that are slowly being eroded by development.
But some are unethical, he admits: “Some farmers wanting to get rich quickly harvest the nest before the eggs are laid, in hopes that the poor mother bird will create a new one. This is silly and risky not to mention being unethical to a creature that is enriching you.”
The doctor has created his own principles for bird nest farming, which he teaches to all his seminar participants: I will not harvest nests that have eggs inside; I will not harvest nests with young birds inside; and I will not cause any form of physical or psychological harm to the birds.
Another common complaint is the noise caused by the artificial chirping relayed through speakers to attract birds to nest.
“I always enjoyed returning to my hometown, Tanjung Sepat (Selangor), for its sea breeze and good food,” says engineer Martin Khoo, 40. “Lately, though, I was horrified to find that many of the upper floors of the shoplots in town, and even some houses, have been converted into swiftlet hotels!
“The chirping goes on incessantly even in the middle of the night. And it’s very unpleasant to tuck into bah-kut-teh while birds fly endlessly above your head,” he says crossly.
Loke of the Perak Swiftlet Eco Park points out that his company believes in housing bird farms on the outskirts of town to help lessen such complaints.
Lack of guidelines
Of course, it would help if there are guidelines to ensure that farms are sited where they won’t be a nuisance.
Even if there were, though, they would be difficult to enforce because no one knows exactly how many farms exist. Different sources give figures ranging from 25,000 to 40,000.
Many are unlicensed, poorly designed, and located incorrectly in residential areas or in heritage buildings.
Though it’s not surprising so many farms are unlicensed; Loke, from Perak’s eco park, points out that there are too many government departments, agencies, and local councils involved.
Beh, of the association of birds’ nests merchants, says there is a clear need for comprehensive guidelines applicable in every state in Malaysia. For instance, a yearly business license in Ipoh is RM120 while in Rompin, Pahang, it costs RM1,200.
Another problem that constrains this industry is that swiftlets are a protected species and, technically, their nests cannot be exported without a license. So most farmers sell their nests to middlemen and cannot reap the full profits.
Even tourists who buy nests legally from retailers cannot take them out of the country – some have had nests confiscated at airports. They must apply for permits from Perhilitan, which can take up to four days to process. And they cost RM200, with an additional export duty of RM100 per kilo.
“It’s ridiculous, isn’t it? Why would tourists want to go through that hassle?” points out Beh. “How can we encourage the purchase of Malaysian-made products when we have rulings like this?
“Surely it’s about time new regulations are made to accommodate this industry’s potential in modern times?”
Many people are also afraid that swiftlet farms will cause or spread bird flu.
But Dr Lim is quick to jump to the defence of his favourite birds: “No health official anywhere in the world has ever found a single strain of avian flu virus among swiftlets.”
He adds that, “Studies have shown that places that have swiftlet farms have reported fewer incidences of dengue fever. A well-run farm has no mosquitoes, as swiftlets consume insects.
“Swiftlets are very clean creatures. They are non-migratory and do not share food or water with other animals. They drink water droplets from the air (hence their penchant for nesting in humid caves) and feed on flying insects.
“I hope more professionals will speak up for swiftlet farming to add credibility to this industry.Knowledge and responsible farming will go far to ensure greater success in this industry.”
Are birdnests really healthy?
Article from The Star
WHILE the consumption of birds' nests has riled some and is misunderstood by others, the Chinese swear by the health properties of these nests created by swiftlets.
A gelatinous bowl of double-boiled birds' nests is believed to slow ageing, improve the complexion, cure coughs, and even improve your sex drive!
Are birds' nests really healthy or are they merely a status symbol prized by the Chinese – all the way since the Tang Dynasty (618CE-907CE), by the way.
"Extracts of birds' nests were found to have a direct stimulating effect on cell renewing and regeneration. They may also slow down the ageing process," says Dr Christopher Lim, kidney specialist, Universiti Putra Malaysia associate professor, and swiftlet farmer.
In Chinese traditional medicine, bird's nest is recommended for a dry, heaty, chronic cough with blood stained phlegm. – File photo courtesy of Eu Yan Sang
Research conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong has discovered that the soluble glycol protein and amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, praline, theonine, and valine) in the saliva the swiftlets use to construct their nests could strengthen the human immune system and promote good skin.
One of the major components of the carbohydrates found in the saliva is sialic acid. It has been found that exogenous (originating outside the body) sources of sialic acid may contribute to neurological and intellectual advantages in infants.
The birds' saliva also contains glucosamine, a substance that reportedly protects joints from degenerating.
Researchers at the University of Shizuoka in Japan have discovered that extracts from edible bird nests contain anti-flu properties.
Elderly people believe that cave nests are better as it takes up to three hours to double boil them while nests farmed in houses or other manmade structures take only 30 minutes. Dr Lim has a different view, though.
"If the proteins take three hours of double boiling to break down, they might not be easily digested in the human body," he says. "Furthermore, cave nests have a higher sodium and mineral content, which may be unsuitable for those with high blood pressure, kidney stones, or thalassemia.
"Birds' nests are one of the most nutritious organic foods available and are absolutely halal," he adds.
■ Some information sourced from ‘Make Millions from Swiftlet Farming: A Definitive Guide' by Dr Christopher Lim.
Are they really healthy?
August 23, 2009
Are they really healthy?
WHILE the consumption of birds' nests has riled some and is misunderstood by others, the Chinese swear by the health properties of these nests created by swiftlets.
A gelatinous bowl of double-boiled birds' nests is believed to slow ageing, improve the complexion, cure coughs, and even improve your sex drive!
Are birds' nests really healthy or are they merely a status symbol prized by the Chinese – all the way since the Tang Dynasty (618CE-907CE), by the way.
"Extracts of birds' nests were found to have a direct stimulating effect on cell renewing and regeneration. They may also slow down the ageing process," says Dr Christopher Lim, kidney specialist, Universiti Putra Malaysia associate professor, and swiftlet farmer.
In Chinese traditional medicine, bird's nest is recommended for a dry, heaty, chronic cough with blood stained phlegm. – File photo courtesy of Eu Yan Sang
Research conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong has discovered that the soluble glycol protein and amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, praline, theonine, and valine) in the saliva the swiftlets use to construct their nests could strengthen the human immune system and promote good skin.
One of the major components of the carbohydrates found in the saliva is sialic acid. It has been found that exogenous (originating outside the body) sources of sialic acid may contribute to neurological and intellectual advantages in infants.
The birds' saliva also contains glucosamine, a substance that reportedly protects joints from degenerating.
Are they really healthy?
WHILE the consumption of birds' nests has riled some and is misunderstood by others, the Chinese swear by the health properties of these nests created by swiftlets.
A gelatinous bowl of double-boiled birds' nests is believed to slow ageing, improve the complexion, cure coughs, and even improve your sex drive!
Are birds' nests really healthy or are they merely a status symbol prized by the Chinese – all the way since the Tang Dynasty (618CE-907CE), by the way.
"Extracts of birds' nests were found to have a direct stimulating effect on cell renewing and regeneration. They may also slow down the ageing process," says Dr Christopher Lim, kidney specialist, Universiti Putra Malaysia associate professor, and swiftlet farmer.
In Chinese traditional medicine, bird's nest is recommended for a dry, heaty, chronic cough with blood stained phlegm. – File photo courtesy of Eu Yan Sang
Research conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong has discovered that the soluble glycol protein and amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, praline, theonine, and valine) in the saliva the swiftlets use to construct their nests could strengthen the human immune system and promote good skin.
One of the major components of the carbohydrates found in the saliva is sialic acid. It has been found that exogenous (originating outside the body) sources of sialic acid may contribute to neurological and intellectual advantages in infants.
The birds' saliva also contains glucosamine, a substance that reportedly protects joints from degenerating.
Researchers at the University of Shizuoka in Japan have discovered that extracts from edible bird nests contain anti-flu properties.
Elderly people believe that cave nests are better as it takes up to three hours to double boil them while nests farmed in houses or other manmade structures take only 30 minutes. Dr Lim has a different view, though.
"If the proteins take three hours of double boiling to break down, they might not be easily digested in the human body," he says. "Furthermore, cave nests have a higher sodium and mineral content, which may be unsuitable for those with high blood pressure, kidney stones, or thalassemia.
"Birds' nests are one of the most nutritious organic foods available and are absolutely halal," he adds.
■ Some information sourced from ‘Make Millions from Swiftlet Farming: A Definitive Guide' by Dr Christopher Lim.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Segamat DO Dismantles Swiftlet Farm
China Press reported that enforcement officers from the Segamat district council had dismantled 100 sets of loudspeakers which were used to attract swiftlets in a 20-storey building, following a court order.
Residents living near the building in the town area had often complained about the noise from the building.
Apparently, three swiftlet farming operators had been using the building to breed swiftlets which are prized for their nests.
The paper quoted council secretary Mustaffa Kamal Shamsuddin as saying the council faced difficulty in acting against swiflet farming because although the state government had banned it, the federal government continued to issue permits.
Residents living near the building in the town area had often complained about the noise from the building.
Apparently, three swiftlet farming operators had been using the building to breed swiftlets which are prized for their nests.
The paper quoted council secretary Mustaffa Kamal Shamsuddin as saying the council faced difficulty in acting against swiflet farming because although the state government had banned it, the federal government continued to issue permits.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Eco-park concept finds takers in bird’s nest business
By AUSTIN CAMOENS
Popular industry: A swiftlet nesting in a house at Swiflet Eco Park in Manjung, Perak.
JOHOR BARU: Chin Yew Fatt, 61, is convinced of the potential in the bird’s nest industry, and has decided to give it a go after attending a seminar here on Saturday.
Chin, who works in the oil and gas industry, said he became keen upon hearing about the industry’s growth over the past 10 years.
“There is a lot of potential here in harvesting bird’s nests, and the eco-park concept is a good idea,” he said.
He was among 50 people who turned up for the Swiftlet Eco Park and Bio Desaru Organic Food Valley Cultivation and Processing Seminar organised by Swiftlet Eco Park Sdn Bhd.
Seow Chin Leng, 47, has been observing the industry for many years and waiting for the right time and project to invest in.
How: Hopes her business will be successful
“I believe the eco-park will provide a well-managed and professional solution for the bird’s nest business,” said the land surveyor.
Meanwhile, Olivia How, in her 30s, said she heard a lot about this business venture from her friends.
“My friends are in it, and many of them told me it is a lucrative business,” she said.
Swiftlet Eco Park executive director Eric P.S. Shak said the seminar was organised to give insight into the industry.
He said the company had been operating an eco-park in Perak and nine other parks would open soon around the country.
“People who lived near swiftlet nests complained about the smell and noise.
“With the eco-parks situated away from residential areas, there will be no more complaints,” he said.
Popular industry: A swiftlet nesting in a house at Swiflet Eco Park in Manjung, Perak.
JOHOR BARU: Chin Yew Fatt, 61, is convinced of the potential in the bird’s nest industry, and has decided to give it a go after attending a seminar here on Saturday.
Chin, who works in the oil and gas industry, said he became keen upon hearing about the industry’s growth over the past 10 years.
“There is a lot of potential here in harvesting bird’s nests, and the eco-park concept is a good idea,” he said.
He was among 50 people who turned up for the Swiftlet Eco Park and Bio Desaru Organic Food Valley Cultivation and Processing Seminar organised by Swiftlet Eco Park Sdn Bhd.
Seow Chin Leng, 47, has been observing the industry for many years and waiting for the right time and project to invest in.
How: Hopes her business will be successful
“I believe the eco-park will provide a well-managed and professional solution for the bird’s nest business,” said the land surveyor.
Meanwhile, Olivia How, in her 30s, said she heard a lot about this business venture from her friends.
“My friends are in it, and many of them told me it is a lucrative business,” she said.
Swiftlet Eco Park executive director Eric P.S. Shak said the seminar was organised to give insight into the industry.
He said the company had been operating an eco-park in Perak and nine other parks would open soon around the country.
“People who lived near swiftlet nests complained about the smell and noise.
“With the eco-parks situated away from residential areas, there will be no more complaints,” he said.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Rearing swiftlets as agriculture: Mukhriz
NST
2009/08/15
KULIM, Sat: Rearing of swiftlets should be made one of the industries in the country's agriculture sector because of its lucrative income, Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mukriz Mahathir said today.
He said the technology in the rearing of swiftlets had changed and that the bird could be bred using the hatchery process and then reared for its nests.
Speaking to reporters after opening an association for agriculture and agro-based industry entrepreneurs and a swiftlet rearing project here, he said such a project was being carried out by the association at Kampung Sungai Tengas, near here.
Some 8,000 birds were being reared in the project and when fully operational was expected to yield an income of RM120,000 a month, he added. -- BERNAMA
2009/08/15
KULIM, Sat: Rearing of swiftlets should be made one of the industries in the country's agriculture sector because of its lucrative income, Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mukriz Mahathir said today.
He said the technology in the rearing of swiftlets had changed and that the bird could be bred using the hatchery process and then reared for its nests.
Speaking to reporters after opening an association for agriculture and agro-based industry entrepreneurs and a swiftlet rearing project here, he said such a project was being carried out by the association at Kampung Sungai Tengas, near here.
Some 8,000 birds were being reared in the project and when fully operational was expected to yield an income of RM120,000 a month, he added. -- BERNAMA
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Housing for the birds
By RASLAN BAHAROM
A single storey low-cost unit turned into triple storey swift hotel is causing anxiety among residents in Kuala Sepetang.
A FISHMONGER and his 80-year-old father have moved out of their home following the arrival of swiftlets which have built their nests next to their low-cost house in Kuala Sepetang, Perak.
Beh Ah Keong (pic) and his father are believed to be the first residents in Malaysia to have moved out of their house due to swiflet problem.
A single storey low-cost unit turned into triple storey swift hotel is causing anxiety among residents in Kuala Sepetang.
Perak has been listed as having the biggest production of swiftlet nest.
According to Beh, he decided to move out when large cracks appeared on the walls and floors of his house in Aulong after a neighbouring unit was turned into a three-storey house for swiftlet nest farming.
He also alleged that fellow tenants in the low-cost housing scheme, which numbered about 55 units, were also facing noise pollution because of the swiftlets.
Commenting on the matter, Taiping Municipal Council president Omor Saad said the setting up of swiflet nests was prohibited in public housing schemes.
“My officers will investigate the matter,’’ he said.
The council may need a court decree to demolish the premises housing the swiftlets if the owner or operator was found to have violated the local building by-laws, he said.
In the meantime, Beh and his father are staying with friends and relatives while waiting for the outcome of the investigation.
A single storey low-cost unit turned into triple storey swift hotel is causing anxiety among residents in Kuala Sepetang.
A FISHMONGER and his 80-year-old father have moved out of their home following the arrival of swiftlets which have built their nests next to their low-cost house in Kuala Sepetang, Perak.
Beh Ah Keong (pic) and his father are believed to be the first residents in Malaysia to have moved out of their house due to swiflet problem.
A single storey low-cost unit turned into triple storey swift hotel is causing anxiety among residents in Kuala Sepetang.
Perak has been listed as having the biggest production of swiftlet nest.
According to Beh, he decided to move out when large cracks appeared on the walls and floors of his house in Aulong after a neighbouring unit was turned into a three-storey house for swiftlet nest farming.
“When it rains, water seeps through the cracks and floods my house. We cannot open the doors and windows for fear that the swiftlets will fly inside our home,” claimed Beh, 46.
He also alleged that fellow tenants in the low-cost housing scheme, which numbered about 55 units, were also facing noise pollution because of the swiftlets.
Commenting on the matter, Taiping Municipal Council president Omor Saad said the setting up of swiflet nests was prohibited in public housing schemes.
“My officers will investigate the matter,’’ he said.
The council may need a court decree to demolish the premises housing the swiftlets if the owner or operator was found to have violated the local building by-laws, he said.
In the meantime, Beh and his father are staying with friends and relatives while waiting for the outcome of the investigation.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Bird hotel owners told to be mindful
lNST
2009/08/03
By Sim Bak Heng
OWNERS of swiftlet hotels are advised to keep their premises clean and nuisance-free.
Batu Pahat Birds' Nest Traders' Association chairman Tan Teck Poh said this was to minimise the number of public complaints.
He was speaking at the recent launch of the association's website -- www.birdnestbp.org.
He urged swiflet hotel owners to instal a timing system at their premises to ensure that calls to attract swiftlets will automatically be switched off by 8pm.
He said there was no point playing the call after that time because swiftlets do not fly at night.
Tan said it was crucial for owners to establish a good rapport with their neighbours and be considerate about their feelings.
"For swiftlet hotels in old shophouses, the owners must renovate or clean up the buildings so that it does not become an eyesore.
"The birds' nest industry is growing rapidly with more demand coming from China.
"I would like to encourage breeders to venture into the China market," he said.
Tan said there are many swiftlet hotels in Batu Pahat town and any decision by the government to relocate the hotels will severely affect the industry. He said the birds like to dwell in populated areas and do not fly in the suburbs.
"I hope the government will continue to issue a licence to owners of swiftlet hotels in old shophouses," he added.
2009/08/03
By Sim Bak Heng
OWNERS of swiftlet hotels are advised to keep their premises clean and nuisance-free.
Batu Pahat Birds' Nest Traders' Association chairman Tan Teck Poh said this was to minimise the number of public complaints.
He was speaking at the recent launch of the association's website -- www.birdnestbp.org.
He urged swiflet hotel owners to instal a timing system at their premises to ensure that calls to attract swiftlets will automatically be switched off by 8pm.
He said there was no point playing the call after that time because swiftlets do not fly at night.
Tan said it was crucial for owners to establish a good rapport with their neighbours and be considerate about their feelings.
"For swiftlet hotels in old shophouses, the owners must renovate or clean up the buildings so that it does not become an eyesore.
"The birds' nest industry is growing rapidly with more demand coming from China.
"I would like to encourage breeders to venture into the China market," he said.
Tan said there are many swiftlet hotels in Batu Pahat town and any decision by the government to relocate the hotels will severely affect the industry. He said the birds like to dwell in populated areas and do not fly in the suburbs.
"I hope the government will continue to issue a licence to owners of swiftlet hotels in old shophouses," he added.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Swiftlet farmers cry foul
By PHILIP HII
SWIFTLET farmers in Sarawak are crying foul over what they claimed as “double standard” in the authorities not issuing licences to them.
There are an estimated 1,500 swiftlet farms in Sarawak.
Only two, one in Kuching and the other in Mukah, have been given licences to operate. The rest of the 1,498 are operating illegally.
They want to know why when several West Malaysian states can give out licences and provide guidelines for swiftlet farming, Sarawak cannot do the same.
“Even our new Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak openly supports swiftlet farming. I just don’t understand why Sarawak cannot follow,” lamented a bumiputra swiftlet farmer from Mukah.
When contacted and pressed on this “double standard” issue, an officer from the Sarawak Forestry Corporation Sdn Bhd (SFC) who wished to remain anonymous, said Sarawak will not blindly follow all the guidelines and rules which have been implemented in West Malaysia.”
“We have our own rules and we will not implement those rules which clearly contravene our own state rules” hesaid.
Under the 1998 Wild Life Protection Ordinance, no one is permitted to carry out swiftlet farming within the town areas. Under the rule, the edible birds nest of the species aerodramus fuciphagus and aerodramus maximus which are protected animals, are only permitted to be bred in agricultural areas in the outskirts other than its original habitat like the natural caves.
The officer, however, added that the state government always supports legitimate swiftlet farming on agriculture land as it recognises that it is a highly profitable industry.
As for the guidelines, he said this will take time as it involves several ministries and departments.
Malaysia is now the world’s third largest producer and exporter of edible birds nest, producing about 150 to 200 tonnes of birds nest worth RM1bil annually.
The top producing states are Perak, Pahang, Kelantan, Penang and Sarawak is catching up fast if not for the recent raids on illegal swiftlet farms throughout the state.
After several warnings to demolish the farms on their own failed, enforcement officers from SFC sprang into action in October last year. The small coastal town of Mukah was their first target.
Fourteen farms, all converted from the town’s shophouses were raided. In the operation carried out by SFC officers from Kuching and aided by police personnel, the farm owners claimed that hundreds of eggs and young swiftlets were killed, either dropping to their death when their nests were removed or starved to death after their parents were forced to flee.
After several days of protests from swiftlet farmers in Mukah as well as other towns and the intervention of politicians and ministers, the operation slowed down.
Several months have since passed.
There have been a few dialogues between SFC and representatives from the state’s several swiftlet farmers and swiftlet merchants associations.
Most members of the recently formed Sarawak Birdnest’s Suppliers Association (SBSA) are very optimistic that the state government will soon work out a win-win solution for this “smokeless industry.”
SBSA appeals to the authorities concerned to urgently solve the current impasse as any further delay will only contribute to greater financial losses to the farmers as well as the nation.
Meanwhile, the number of swiftlet farms continue to increase all over Sarawak. Sources said that each day at least two new farms are added to the growing list and many of the new swiftlet farmers are bumiputra farmers and fishermen living in the coastal regions.
SWIFTLET farmers in Sarawak are crying foul over what they claimed as “double standard” in the authorities not issuing licences to them.
There are an estimated 1,500 swiftlet farms in Sarawak.
Only two, one in Kuching and the other in Mukah, have been given licences to operate. The rest of the 1,498 are operating illegally.
They want to know why when several West Malaysian states can give out licences and provide guidelines for swiftlet farming, Sarawak cannot do the same.
“Even our new Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak openly supports swiftlet farming. I just don’t understand why Sarawak cannot follow,” lamented a bumiputra swiftlet farmer from Mukah.
When contacted and pressed on this “double standard” issue, an officer from the Sarawak Forestry Corporation Sdn Bhd (SFC) who wished to remain anonymous, said Sarawak will not blindly follow all the guidelines and rules which have been implemented in West Malaysia.”
“We have our own rules and we will not implement those rules which clearly contravene our own state rules” hesaid.
Under the 1998 Wild Life Protection Ordinance, no one is permitted to carry out swiftlet farming within the town areas. Under the rule, the edible birds nest of the species aerodramus fuciphagus and aerodramus maximus which are protected animals, are only permitted to be bred in agricultural areas in the outskirts other than its original habitat like the natural caves.
The officer, however, added that the state government always supports legitimate swiftlet farming on agriculture land as it recognises that it is a highly profitable industry.
As for the guidelines, he said this will take time as it involves several ministries and departments.
Malaysia is now the world’s third largest producer and exporter of edible birds nest, producing about 150 to 200 tonnes of birds nest worth RM1bil annually.
The top producing states are Perak, Pahang, Kelantan, Penang and Sarawak is catching up fast if not for the recent raids on illegal swiftlet farms throughout the state.
After several warnings to demolish the farms on their own failed, enforcement officers from SFC sprang into action in October last year. The small coastal town of Mukah was their first target.
Fourteen farms, all converted from the town’s shophouses were raided. In the operation carried out by SFC officers from Kuching and aided by police personnel, the farm owners claimed that hundreds of eggs and young swiftlets were killed, either dropping to their death when their nests were removed or starved to death after their parents were forced to flee.
After several days of protests from swiftlet farmers in Mukah as well as other towns and the intervention of politicians and ministers, the operation slowed down.
Several months have since passed.
There have been a few dialogues between SFC and representatives from the state’s several swiftlet farmers and swiftlet merchants associations.
Most members of the recently formed Sarawak Birdnest’s Suppliers Association (SBSA) are very optimistic that the state government will soon work out a win-win solution for this “smokeless industry.”
SBSA appeals to the authorities concerned to urgently solve the current impasse as any further delay will only contribute to greater financial losses to the farmers as well as the nation.
Meanwhile, the number of swiftlet farms continue to increase all over Sarawak. Sources said that each day at least two new farms are added to the growing list and many of the new swiftlet farmers are bumiputra farmers and fishermen living in the coastal regions.
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