June 10, 2010 11:53 AM
Bernama
By Syed Azwan Syed Ali
KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 (Bernama) -- The thriving swiftlet farming industry is set to help the nation realise the New Economic Model (NEM) goals, especially in creating a high income society.
The bird nest export that fetches RM1.5 billion in annual revenue is a big contributer for the nation's economy, and it is one of the trades that provide quick returns.
Moreover, the capital outlay is relatively small and the returns can be realised within a short period.
Swiftlet farming involves an initial capital between RM10,000 and RM30,000 to set up a bird house on a 10 feet by 15 feet site, minus the cost of purchasing or leasing the site.
If the investors think of joining the ranks of the big players in the industry, than the initial investment can be anything between RM250,000 and RM600,000.
LOAN FUND
In states like Melaka, Penang and Sarawak, shoplots have been modified into 'bird house' to get a slice of this lucrative industry.
The bird's nest soup is highly nutrious and said to contain elements that contribute to the "fountain of youth". It is also said to improve blood circulation and in mainland China its consumption is linked with one's status in the society.
It is also a delight savoured by the elites in the Arab world.
Realising the bird nest industry's potential to the economy, the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry through Agrobank has set aside RM67.7 million to finance swiftlet farming.
Agrobank's Managing Director Datuk Ahmad Said noted that the move is in line with the government's effort to boost up the people's annual income from AS$7,000 to AS$15,000 as underscored by the NEM.
SEKING THE PARTICIPATION OF ALL RACES
Ahmad noted that the special fund will enable at least 2,000 potential entrepreneurs to venture into small scale swiftlet farming costing between RM10,000 and RM30,000 while enjoying an interest rate that is as low as 3.75 percent.
Industry observers note that the loan from Agrobank will allow entrepreneurs from all races to participate in the trade that is currently being monopolied by Chinese entrepreneurs.
Ahmad pointed out that the raw bird nest could fetch between RM3,000-RM4,000 per kg and the processed ones can go up to RM12,000 and the high prices is helping the industry to thrive.
It is reported that at present there is about 50,000 swiftlet farms all over the nation.
In enticing the poor to participate in the trade, the government also launched a grant worth RM5 million to enable 500 poor familes to undertake swiftlet farming.
1GP TAKEN TO THE MINISTRY LEVEL
Under the grant, selected families (those earning below RM450 a month) will be provided a bird house worth RM10,000 that is to supplement the family's income.
In a media report dated 11 Feb 2010, the Veterinary Services Director General Datuk Dr Abdul Aziz Jamaluddin stated that the department would identify the poor families to be enlisted in swiftlet farming.
However, the lucrative industry that started with the migration of the swiftlets from Indonesia over the last 10 years is yet to settle the regulatory issues.
The 1GP guideline for swiftlet farming set by the Veterinary Services Department is yet to reach the cabinet for approval.
The Agriculture and Agrobased Industries Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar had previously stated that the 1GP that would serve as the standard for the industry had been finalised by the ministry's officials and would be brought to the minister's attention.
MAINTAIN THE PRODUCER'S STATUS
Apart from the Agriculture and Agrobased Industries Ministry, swiflet farming also involves three other ministries - Health Ministry, Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, and the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
What is certain, like what the industry players hope, 1GP will be implemented immediately to address issues relating to establishing bird houses within city limits that contributes to odour, noise and risk of diseases.
Apart from maintaining the status as the leading producer of the bird's nest in Southeast Asia, the fund and guideline will help propel Malaysia into the forefront of the trade in less than 10 years time.
At present, the main market for the bird's nest is China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore with Malaysia earning a reputation as the producer of good quality bird nests after Indonesia and Thailand.
-- BERNAMA
Showing posts with label birdnest soup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label birdnest soup. Show all posts
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
Retiree opens bird’s nest shop
Friday May 7, 2010
The Star
By SIMON KHOO
simonkhoo@thestar.com.my
KUANTAN: At first glance, the Natural Bird Nest Supplies in Jalan Merdeka here appears to be a shop catering to the rich.
“That is not so,” said proprietor Tan Ai King, who has been working hard to convince the average white collar worker to step in and try her specialities.
The shop sells stewed bird’s nest and packed products.
“All our products are 100% pure with no chemicals or artificial sweetening added to enhance the taste.
“We get our supply of bird’s nest from our own swiftlet farms located in Pekan, Maran, Indera Mahkota and Inderapura.
“As such, we can charge a lower price than the actual market cost of a kilogramme of raw bird’s nest which is about RM5,000,” she said.
Plenty of choices: Tan (left) showing some of her products to a customer.
She said she had a steady number of regular customers since her store opened in the middle of last year.
She said her aim was to get more local folks as well as visitors from other states to try her specialities, including several types of desserts.
“I prepare the desserts with the help of six workers. I am a retiree and doing this for the love of food.
“My youngest son Lawrence Hoo is also helping me out at the store,” she said, adding that her husband Hoo Kat Lee was managing the swiftlet farms and providing consultancy services in swiftlet farming.
Tan said she started the business from her home in Bukit Sekilau about five years ago and decided to expand by opening a shop.
“There is a market because people are more conscious about their health.
“There were about three or four outlets in Kuantan previously but all had closed down as the owners could not sustain operations due to the high cost involved,” she said.
She said many of her customers were not rich people but appreciated the product, including people from the neighbouring states of Terengganu and Kelantan.
“I also have customers from China and Singapore who were told by their fellow countrymen to drop by our shop if they were holidaying in Kuantan.
“A bowl of bird’s nest soup at our shop starts from RM35 for one person to RM130 for three to four people,” she said, adding that customers would have to wait half-an-hour for the order.
Tan said some even placed bulk orders for 20 people.
For more information, call 09-514 1288 or 012-908 2299.
The Star
By SIMON KHOO
simonkhoo@thestar.com.my
KUANTAN: At first glance, the Natural Bird Nest Supplies in Jalan Merdeka here appears to be a shop catering to the rich.
“That is not so,” said proprietor Tan Ai King, who has been working hard to convince the average white collar worker to step in and try her specialities.
The shop sells stewed bird’s nest and packed products.
“All our products are 100% pure with no chemicals or artificial sweetening added to enhance the taste.
“We get our supply of bird’s nest from our own swiftlet farms located in Pekan, Maran, Indera Mahkota and Inderapura.
“As such, we can charge a lower price than the actual market cost of a kilogramme of raw bird’s nest which is about RM5,000,” she said.
Plenty of choices: Tan (left) showing some of her products to a customer.
She said she had a steady number of regular customers since her store opened in the middle of last year.
She said her aim was to get more local folks as well as visitors from other states to try her specialities, including several types of desserts.
“I prepare the desserts with the help of six workers. I am a retiree and doing this for the love of food.
“My youngest son Lawrence Hoo is also helping me out at the store,” she said, adding that her husband Hoo Kat Lee was managing the swiftlet farms and providing consultancy services in swiftlet farming.
Tan said she started the business from her home in Bukit Sekilau about five years ago and decided to expand by opening a shop.
“There is a market because people are more conscious about their health.
“There were about three or four outlets in Kuantan previously but all had closed down as the owners could not sustain operations due to the high cost involved,” she said.
She said many of her customers were not rich people but appreciated the product, including people from the neighbouring states of Terengganu and Kelantan.
“I also have customers from China and Singapore who were told by their fellow countrymen to drop by our shop if they were holidaying in Kuantan.
“A bowl of bird’s nest soup at our shop starts from RM35 for one person to RM130 for three to four people,” she said, adding that customers would have to wait half-an-hour for the order.
Tan said some even placed bulk orders for 20 people.
For more information, call 09-514 1288 or 012-908 2299.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Bird's nest: Telling the real from the fake
2010/03/29
NST
NEGRI Sembilan Association of Bird's Nest Traders president Datuk Lee Yuen Fong says edible bird's nest is among the most expensive animal products in the world and has been used in traditional Chinese cooking for almost half a decade.
"The nests are composed of interwoven strands of salivary laminae cement and have high levels of calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. The male swiftlet builds the nest, which is shaped like a shallow cup and is stuck to the walls of buildings and caves."
Lee says the nests are harvested thrice a year, with each harvest lasting up to three months.
He says swiftlets are monogamous birds and both partners take part in caring for the nestlings. The average lifespan of a swiftlet is between 15 and 18 years.
He says there is an increasing number of fake bird's nests making their way into the market. But anyone who is familiar with the product will be able to tell the difference.
"For one, swiftlets build their nests from their saliva, which is formed into strands. These strands can be detached into layers when soaked in plain water and, as a result, will be of different lengths and sizes. Fake ones will be perfect in size."
He also says the genuine bird's nest should be able to expand to double its size after being soaked and cooked.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Company promotes bird’s nest products among Malay community
Borneo Post
February 23, 2010, Tuesday
ALOR SETAR: Budi Daya Burung Trading (Daya Burung), a Bumiputera company which processes and markets bird’s nest, is promoting its products to get more people, especially the Malays, to enjoy the delicacy.Under a promotion package, the company is offering the grade ‘A’ bird’s nest produced from the nesting houses of swiftlet birds, at a special economy package priced at RM3 per bottle.
The bird’s nest product can be ordered directly from the company, its managing director Nazri Hood said.
He said the company’s bird’s nest taken from the swiflet birds was nutritious and its benefits similar to that produced by the Niah Caves bird nest which is said to be best in the world.
The higher priced bird nest from the Niah Caves come from the ‘Maharaja’ birds, he explained.
Daya Burung is the first Bumiputera company involved in the wholesale as well as production and trading of bird’s nest.
The company’s bird nest is marketed under the brand name of ‘Budi Birds Al-Kautsar’ in the country.
Nazri said the consumption of bird’s nest is a tradition among the Chinese, which has been proven to be effective in the treatment of various illnesses.
It can be used to improve energy and immunity levels, among others, he said.
“However, its high price has prevented many people from enjoying the nutrition of bird’s nest which will be good for their health,” he said in an interview with Bernama here yesterday.
In view of this, the company is now offering the Niah Caves ‘A’ grade bird’s nest in a four-bottle pack of 170ml each at RM138.
They are available at pharmacies as well as traditional Chinese medicine shops nationwide, he added.
“Our bird’s nest are hand processed at a controlled temperature to ensure its natural value and quality,” Nazri said.
He said the demand for Daya Burung products had gone up to RM5 million a month since last year including its export demand.
Nazri said the company obtained an average of 200 kg of bird’s nest a week from the Niah Caves as well as from the nesting houses and currently met the demands sufficiently.
In order to meet the growing demand, he said the company was also looking out for investors keen on joint ventures to build more nesting houses.
He said the company also currently provided consultancy services to companies keen to develop nesting houses for the swiftlets birds. — Bernama
February 23, 2010, Tuesday
ALOR SETAR: Budi Daya Burung Trading (Daya Burung), a Bumiputera company which processes and markets bird’s nest, is promoting its products to get more people, especially the Malays, to enjoy the delicacy.Under a promotion package, the company is offering the grade ‘A’ bird’s nest produced from the nesting houses of swiftlet birds, at a special economy package priced at RM3 per bottle.
The bird’s nest product can be ordered directly from the company, its managing director Nazri Hood said.
He said the company’s bird’s nest taken from the swiflet birds was nutritious and its benefits similar to that produced by the Niah Caves bird nest which is said to be best in the world.
The higher priced bird nest from the Niah Caves come from the ‘Maharaja’ birds, he explained.
Daya Burung is the first Bumiputera company involved in the wholesale as well as production and trading of bird’s nest.
The company’s bird nest is marketed under the brand name of ‘Budi Birds Al-Kautsar’ in the country.
Nazri said the consumption of bird’s nest is a tradition among the Chinese, which has been proven to be effective in the treatment of various illnesses.
It can be used to improve energy and immunity levels, among others, he said.
“However, its high price has prevented many people from enjoying the nutrition of bird’s nest which will be good for their health,” he said in an interview with Bernama here yesterday.
In view of this, the company is now offering the Niah Caves ‘A’ grade bird’s nest in a four-bottle pack of 170ml each at RM138.
They are available at pharmacies as well as traditional Chinese medicine shops nationwide, he added.
“Our bird’s nest are hand processed at a controlled temperature to ensure its natural value and quality,” Nazri said.
He said the demand for Daya Burung products had gone up to RM5 million a month since last year including its export demand.
Nazri said the company obtained an average of 200 kg of bird’s nest a week from the Niah Caves as well as from the nesting houses and currently met the demands sufficiently.
In order to meet the growing demand, he said the company was also looking out for investors keen on joint ventures to build more nesting houses.
He said the company also currently provided consultancy services to companies keen to develop nesting houses for the swiftlets birds. — Bernama
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Lucrative but risky business
Wednesday January 13, 2010
The Star
By ANN TAN
THE bird nest industry may be booming within the George Town heritage enclave but it is still a trade secret among breeders.
Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh said there was no right formula in attracting the swiftlets and those who had found the technique would usually not teach others.
Loh looking up at the birds nests in one of the swiftlet houses in George Town.
“The business may look good on paper. It may bring high returns but it is a risky investment as the success rate is only 20% to 30%.
“To invest and buy a bird house, one has to obtain a bank loan as it involves a huge investment. Then, one may have to wait for up to three years before one can get some returns. So within this period, there is no income,” she said.
Loh said there were many cases where swiftlets had failed “set up shop” and the investors were forced to shut down because they were unable to service their bank loans.
“Swiftlets lay eggs three times a year and two eggs at a time. It takes between 30 and 45 days for them to build the nest and another 45 days for the chicks to mature,” she said.
A baby swiftlet in its nest.
“Prior to harvesting, the breeders must ensure that there are no eggs or chicks in it for them to have a chance to grow.
“The harvested bird nests are then soaked in water for it to expand so that the feathers and dirt could be separated. This is usually done by a middle man who would then sell the nutritious product to others.”
Eating the swiftlet’s nest is believed to help maintain skin tone, balance qi (life energy) and reinforce the immune system.
It is also believed to strengthen the lungs and prevent coughs, improve the constitution and prolong life.
Commenting on claims that the industry is health hazard and a threat to heritage, Loh said it was not justified to focus on a few errant swiftlet breeders.
“It has been estimated that at least 8.3% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings have been re-stored and rehabilitated by bird nest breeders.
Swiftlets flying to their nests on the ceiling beams.
“There are many swiftlet houses in pre-war buildings which have been beautifully restored in keeping with its heritage features,” she said.
A recent visit by The Star to the swiftlets’ breeding ground saw the houses well renovated and maintained. There was also no stagnant water in the premises as breeders used humidifier machines to control the humidity.
“Heritage has to be sustainable. It is not enough to have a heritage status if there are no businesses that will bring the right level of income to support and sustain heritage development,” she said.
On the matter of breeders using tweeters to attract the birds to the houses, Loh said the state government could come out with a directive to limit the decibel so that it would not disturb the neighbours.
“And the droppings that we see outside are actually that of the pigeons’ as swiftlets are very parti-cular and they only release their droppings in the house.
“The breeders clean the bird houses weekly as the swiftlets like a clean premises. The Health Department could issue breeders with a health certificate which can be revoked if the cleanliness is not maintained,” she said.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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
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