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.