Friday January 21, 2011
The Star
LABIS: Swiftlet breeding premises must have a computer chip detailing their locations so that the authorities can identify them if the public lodges complaints about noise and health pollution.
Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong said the tracking system, which was imposed following the introduction of the National Swiftlet Industry Guidelines approved by the Cabinet recently, would enable the ministry to track them via GPS (global positioning system).
“It will be difficult to locate the premises if the chip is not installed because many do not have details of their addresses, including road names.
“The ministry has received many complaints from the public.
“They are worried about the impact of these premises on their health.
“Such places can create environment and noise pollution, too,” he said after closing a swiftlet industry seminar yesterday.
Chua said swiftlet breeders in Negri Sembilan had started to install the chip and he hoped all industry members would follow suit in the next three years.
“Malaysia’s current export of bird’s nest is expected to reach RM5bil by 2020 and it is important that the industry be regulated to meet all the requirements to allow healthy growth,” he added.
Chua said swiftlet operators must also seek certification from the Veterinary Services Department before they could export their produce.
He added that China, one of the largest importers of bird’s nest from Malaysia, wanted regulations to be in place to ensure proper product quality control was maintained.
Chua said the guidelines also covered other aspects like the location of premises, processing of bird’s nest, importing and exporting procedures, and the creation of environment-friendly premises.
Showing posts with label complaints. Show all posts
Showing posts with label complaints. Show all posts
Friday, January 21, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Sarawakians going into swiftlet farming in a big way
Monday January 17, 2011
The Star
By JACK WONG
jackwong@thestar.com.my
KUCHING: Sarawakians are flocking to the lucrative swiftlet farming business as more and more bird houses are being set up in the state.
Sarawak Bird's Nest Suppliers Association secretary Colin Wong Chung Onn said there was an estimated 5,000 swiftlet houses statewide with many more under construction.
“The number of swiftlet houses has more than doubled compared with a year ago,” he told StarBiz.
About 60% of these houses are found in the Mukah and Sarikei divisions in central Sarawak mostly along the coastal areas.
Unprocessed swiftlet nests have a market price of between RM3,000 and RM5,000 per kg compared with at least RM7,000 per kg for processed nests.
Unlike Peninsula Malaysia, Sarawak is a late starter in commercial swiftlet farming.
It is learnt that the state authorities, in consultation with the industry players, are drafting comprehensive guidelines to regulate the development of the industry.
Acting on environmental and health concerns, the state authorities had investigated more than 400 illegal farms last year, said Sarawak Assistant Minister for Planning and Resource Management Naroden Majais.
He said the construction of swiftlet farms was being closely monitored to prevent illegal operations.
Naroden said two licences were needed for commercial swiftlet farming - one to construct the building for the swiftlets to nest and the second for the rearing of the birds.
Some 250 licences to construct buildings and a handful to rear the birds have been approved.
Wong said big-time investors were constructing double or three-storey concrete shophouses to rear the swiftlets while the smaller ones, like farmers and fishermen, were building wooden houses.
Unoccupied or under-utilised shophouses and residential houses have been converted into swiftlet farms.
He said it would cost about RM400,000 (excluding land), to build a three-storey shophouse (36ft x 76ft) for swiftlet farming.
Sarawak's first swiftlet eco-park, a RM40mil joint-venture between state Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and Borneo Resources Synergy Sdn Bhd is expected to be ready in Balingian, Mukah division within the Sarawak Corridor for Renewable Energy by next year.
The park will have 40 three-storey units and 15 three-storey bungalow units.
The SEDC has been tasked by the Sarawak government to spearhead the development of swiftlet farming on a well-planned, sustainable and eco-friendly manner.
Similar eco-parks have been planned for other parts of the state.
Wong said some pioneer swiftlet houses in Paloh, Mukah division could each produce up to 3kg of swiftlet nests a month.
“Unprocessed swiftlet nests fetch a market price of between RM3,000 and RM5,000 per kg compared with at least RM7,000 per kg for the processed nests.”
Some of the raw nests are being sold by middlemen to Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
He said based on a conservative estimate of the 5,000 bird houses producing an average 0.5kg of nests a month, this would mean a yearly production of 3,000kg. At an average market price of RM3,500 per kg, it would generate RM10.5mil per annum for the Sarawak economy.
Sarawak's production of swiftlet nests, Naroden said was 2,854kg last year, up from 2,095kg in 2008.
For the first 10 months of last year, 1,757kg valued at RM7mil were produced.
Naroden said China was the biggest market for edible swiftlet nests, followed by Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia.
Wong said the production of swiftlet nests from caves, like Niah Cave in Miri, had been on the decline over the years because of over-harvesting.
Although swiftlet farming is potentially lucrative, he said there were investors who had not been successful in their ventures due to several factors.
“Choosing the right location to site the swiftlet houses is vital, otherwise it will take a longer time to attract the birds.
“Other important factors are the design and conditions, like temperature and humidity, of the houses,” he added.
According to an investor, the returns from successful swiftlet farming was comparatively higher than most businesses.
He said a two-storey swiftlet house (20ft x 60ft which costs between RM250,000 and RM300,000 to build) could produce between 36kg and 48kg of nests a year (worth between RM144,000 and RM192,000 based on RM4,000 per kg) from the fourth year of operation.
“Once in operation,it will take at least 18 months for the first collection of the nests. Production will gradually increase with more swiftlets nesting,” he added.
For the most successful operator, it would take about five years to fully recover the costs to build the swiftlet houses and related facilities, adding that from then on, the profits would be high.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
China complains about 2 M’sian bird’s nest factories using dangerous chemicals
Published: Saturday October 23, 2010 MYT 12:37:00 PM
Bernama
SEREMBAN: Two swiftlet nest processing factories have been using dangerous chemicals to make the nests look reddish so that it can be categorised as top quality.
However, China, the main importer of the nests, spotted the bid by the factories to cheat buyers and filed a complaint with Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, according to the ministry’s deputy minister Chua Tee Yong.
He said the factories have been ordered to stop operations and action would soon be taken over the use of the chemical, which could cause cancer.
Speaking to reporters after opening a course on swiftlet farming here Saturday, he also said that a guideline on swiftlet farming would be introduced this year to facilitate regulation by authorities on the industry.
He said there were about 6,000 swiftlet farming operators registered with the ministry, but believed the actual number of operators involved was twice the number. – Bernama
Bernama
SEREMBAN: Two swiftlet nest processing factories have been using dangerous chemicals to make the nests look reddish so that it can be categorised as top quality.
However, China, the main importer of the nests, spotted the bid by the factories to cheat buyers and filed a complaint with Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, according to the ministry’s deputy minister Chua Tee Yong.
He said the factories have been ordered to stop operations and action would soon be taken over the use of the chemical, which could cause cancer.
Speaking to reporters after opening a course on swiftlet farming here Saturday, he also said that a guideline on swiftlet farming would be introduced this year to facilitate regulation by authorities on the industry.
He said there were about 6,000 swiftlet farming operators registered with the ministry, but believed the actual number of operators involved was twice the number. – Bernama
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Health Ministry to conduct checks on bird’s nest
Tuesday August 24, 2010
By LEE YUK PENG and CHRISTINA TAN
newsdesk@thestar.com.my
PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry’s Food and Safety Department will collect samples of bird’s nest on sale in the market to check for contamination with dangerous chemicals.
Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said this came in the wake of reports of traders adding chemicals to bird’s nest to turn them into red “blood’s nest” to mark up the price.
He warned traders that those found guilty of using non-permitted colouring could be jailed up to five years or fined up to RM100,000 or both under the Food Act.
Liow said the image of the billion ringgit a year bird’s nest industry must not be tarnished especially when most of the production were for export.
He said the ministry had yet to receive any complaints on tainted bird’s nest.
The Star reported yesterday that “blood nest” — a much sought after variety of bird’s nest — was actually tainted with chemicals.
While the normal bird’s nest, which is ivory in colour, can fetch up to RM10,000 a kilo, the reddish “blood nest” fetches up to RM20,000 a kilo.
In exposing the scam, Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong said this tainted bird’s nests was dangerous to health.
He said the nests were either sprayed with iodine or stored at premises where there was high ammonia content to give them a uniform bright-red colour.
By LEE YUK PENG and CHRISTINA TAN
newsdesk@thestar.com.my
PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry’s Food and Safety Department will collect samples of bird’s nest on sale in the market to check for contamination with dangerous chemicals.
Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said this came in the wake of reports of traders adding chemicals to bird’s nest to turn them into red “blood’s nest” to mark up the price.
He warned traders that those found guilty of using non-permitted colouring could be jailed up to five years or fined up to RM100,000 or both under the Food Act.
Liow said the image of the billion ringgit a year bird’s nest industry must not be tarnished especially when most of the production were for export.
He said the ministry had yet to receive any complaints on tainted bird’s nest.
The Star reported yesterday that “blood nest” — a much sought after variety of bird’s nest — was actually tainted with chemicals.
While the normal bird’s nest, which is ivory in colour, can fetch up to RM10,000 a kilo, the reddish “blood nest” fetches up to RM20,000 a kilo.
In exposing the scam, Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong said this tainted bird’s nests was dangerous to health.
He said the nests were either sprayed with iodine or stored at premises where there was high ammonia content to give them a uniform bright-red colour.
No room for swiftlets
Noise is certainly the main complain from irated residents nearby. Mindless and selfish birdhouse owners are to be blamed. This is a problem that is easy to resolve. The swiftlet association cah work closely with the councils to make swiftlet house owners comply or face being closed down permanently. When will these stupid swiftlet house owner ever learn?
Jackie
*******************************************************************************
Thursday August 26, 2010
The Star
WE REFER to the report “Group mulls legal action against Penang govt” (The Star, Aug 24) and wish to express our support for the state government’s initiative to move swiftlet farming away from the city.
My family stays in George Town. About seven years ago, someone set up a swiftlet farm two units away from our pre-war house. Later, several popped up in the vicinity as well and since then, we have to endure the ceaseless noise from the artificial bird sounds broadcast throughout most of the day.
This has severely affected our quality of life. On weekends, when we look forward to just relaxing at home, we have to put up with the aural assault.
The farm owners claim that the noise levels are within approved limits even though to us, it certainly doesn’t sound like it. Please imagine listening to your favourite piece of music, can you tolerate listening to it non-stop for hours, days and months? What more if it is high-pitched shrills.
Research has shown that prolonged and continuous exposure to unwanted noise can have a detrimental effect on one’s stress levels and mental health.
Most of these farm owners don’t stay in or even near the farms they own, yet they have no feelings that their actions are affecting dozens of households. There is an irony here as well. If claims by the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) that the success rate of swiftlet farming is just 30% are true, that would mean the people living near the other 70% of swiftlet farms are suffering for nothing!
Now we have farm owners like ASNI Penang president threatening to sue the Penang government if they are evicted. But what about the suffering neighbours? Can we sue the swiftlet farm owners for creating a public nuisance?
Dr Kenneth Khoo talks about the 2005 guidelines like it was something set in stone and can never be changed. Many things have changed since. George Town has been granted heritage status, investors both local and abroad have been buying up pre-war buildings and conservation and renovation projects have picked up pace all over the city. With this, businesses and residents will slowly but surely return. George Town has the ability to become a choice destination again.
Swiftlet farm owners in the town area should look beyond their own self-interest. If they are allowed to continue operating, what is there to stop anyone else from setting up another farm? Do you want to see the beautiful George Town turned into a hollowed out city like some smaller towns in Malaysia where most of the residents are swiftlets?
Furthermore, the state government is not even talking about banning swiftlet farming in the state, it is merely trying to move it to a more appropriate area where disturbance to the general public can be minimised.
ELISE LEE,
George Town.
Jackie
*******************************************************************************
Thursday August 26, 2010
The Star
WE REFER to the report “Group mulls legal action against Penang govt” (The Star, Aug 24) and wish to express our support for the state government’s initiative to move swiftlet farming away from the city.
My family stays in George Town. About seven years ago, someone set up a swiftlet farm two units away from our pre-war house. Later, several popped up in the vicinity as well and since then, we have to endure the ceaseless noise from the artificial bird sounds broadcast throughout most of the day.
This has severely affected our quality of life. On weekends, when we look forward to just relaxing at home, we have to put up with the aural assault.
The farm owners claim that the noise levels are within approved limits even though to us, it certainly doesn’t sound like it. Please imagine listening to your favourite piece of music, can you tolerate listening to it non-stop for hours, days and months? What more if it is high-pitched shrills.
Research has shown that prolonged and continuous exposure to unwanted noise can have a detrimental effect on one’s stress levels and mental health.
Most of these farm owners don’t stay in or even near the farms they own, yet they have no feelings that their actions are affecting dozens of households. There is an irony here as well. If claims by the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) that the success rate of swiftlet farming is just 30% are true, that would mean the people living near the other 70% of swiftlet farms are suffering for nothing!
Now we have farm owners like ASNI Penang president threatening to sue the Penang government if they are evicted. But what about the suffering neighbours? Can we sue the swiftlet farm owners for creating a public nuisance?
Dr Kenneth Khoo talks about the 2005 guidelines like it was something set in stone and can never be changed. Many things have changed since. George Town has been granted heritage status, investors both local and abroad have been buying up pre-war buildings and conservation and renovation projects have picked up pace all over the city. With this, businesses and residents will slowly but surely return. George Town has the ability to become a choice destination again.
Swiftlet farm owners in the town area should look beyond their own self-interest. If they are allowed to continue operating, what is there to stop anyone else from setting up another farm? Do you want to see the beautiful George Town turned into a hollowed out city like some smaller towns in Malaysia where most of the residents are swiftlets?
Furthermore, the state government is not even talking about banning swiftlet farming in the state, it is merely trying to move it to a more appropriate area where disturbance to the general public can be minimised.
ELISE LEE,
George Town.
Group mulls legal action against Penang govt
Is the Penang govt barking up the wrong tree ? Has UNESCO demanded that there be no swiftlet birdhouse in Georgetown or else its World Heritage Status would be revoked? The birdhouse were already there when Georgetown was given the award so shouldn't they remain as part of Georgetown?
*********************************************************
Tuesday August 24, 2010
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) is considering legal action against the state government if it proceeds to evict bird farms from commercial buildings in the town centre.
Penang branch president Carole Loh said its members would lose up to RM77.91mil if they were evicted from the premises - some of which were situated in the heritage zone.
“This is our last resort. We need to protect the interests of our members,” she said in an interview.
There are 147 registered swiftlet farmers in the commercial zones within George Town, and most of them have invested a minimum renovation cost of RM50,000 in the pre-war buildings where the swiftlets are bred.
Small and Medium Industries Association of Penang secretary-general Dr Kenneth Khoo, who supported ASNI, said the farms were not within residential areas.
The 2005 guidelines for operators states that farming activities for bird nests must be conducted away from residential areas.
“There are legitimate expectations when the council made the 2005 guidelines public, and the birdhouse owners complied with the guidelines by setting up the birdhouses in commercial areas,” Dr Khoo said.
State Religious, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs committee chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim has reportedly said the state would review current policies on bird nest farming.
*********************************************************
Tuesday August 24, 2010
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) is considering legal action against the state government if it proceeds to evict bird farms from commercial buildings in the town centre.
Penang branch president Carole Loh said its members would lose up to RM77.91mil if they were evicted from the premises - some of which were situated in the heritage zone.
“This is our last resort. We need to protect the interests of our members,” she said in an interview.
There are 147 registered swiftlet farmers in the commercial zones within George Town, and most of them have invested a minimum renovation cost of RM50,000 in the pre-war buildings where the swiftlets are bred.
Small and Medium Industries Association of Penang secretary-general Dr Kenneth Khoo, who supported ASNI, said the farms were not within residential areas.
The 2005 guidelines for operators states that farming activities for bird nests must be conducted away from residential areas.
“There are legitimate expectations when the council made the 2005 guidelines public, and the birdhouse owners complied with the guidelines by setting up the birdhouses in commercial areas,” Dr Khoo said.
State Religious, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs committee chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim has reportedly said the state would review current policies on bird nest farming.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Flap over swiftlet farms
Tuesday August 10, 2010
The Star
By MANJIT KAUR
manjit@thestar.com.my
DESPITE the moratorium on swiftlet farming, birdhouses are still being erected on the island, said Penang Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow.
He said that prior to 2008, only 20-over licences were issued for the industry but there were now about 200 swiftlet farms.
Chow said the Pakatan Rakyat administration never issued any licences but he was aware of new birdhouses being erected illegally during this period.
“Action can be taken against them,” he told reporters after chairing the Penang Local Government Consultative Forum at the Caring Society Complex yesterday.
Chow said they continued to have meetings on the issue at state level and with the local councils, department heads and non-governmental organisations.
“We will hold another meeting with the National Heritage Department next week on the Integrated Swiftlets Industry Development Guidelines.
“We can consider various views but all the feedback on the guidelines will be raised at the Local Government National Council Meeting,” he added.
Earlier, a discussion involving the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh, the state Veterinary Department and several other NGOs was held.
Loh said many people had the wrong perception about the industry, saying the association was willing to compromise with the authorities but a win-win solution was needed.
“We have invested so much money into the business after being asked by the previous administration to set up the farms and now the government want us to just move out,” she said.
“There are claims the industry will be a threat to the Unesco listing but I am sure when the status was given, the relevant authorities knew about the industry in George Town.
“The swiftlets are a living heritage and were around even before the Unesco status was accorded,” she added.
Loh asked where the hundreds of swiftlets would go if their natural habitat was to be destroyed.
“Moving out of George Town is not negotiable. In theory, everything can be done but in practice the situation is different,” she added.
Penang municipal councillor Lim Kah Cheng said it was not possible to farm in urban areas, especially in George Town.
“If swiftlets are allowed, then how are we going to stop others from having chicken farms?” she asked.
“The new government will not follow what has been enforced by the previous administration,” she said, adding that there were laws and regulations to be followed.
Malaysian Nature Society branch chairman D. Kanda Kumar said it was up to the state to adopt the guidelines.
“We are not against swiftlet farming but I think the farms should be located in suitable areas,” he added.
The Star
By MANJIT KAUR
manjit@thestar.com.my
DESPITE the moratorium on swiftlet farming, birdhouses are still being erected on the island, said Penang Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow.
He said that prior to 2008, only 20-over licences were issued for the industry but there were now about 200 swiftlet farms.
Chow said the Pakatan Rakyat administration never issued any licences but he was aware of new birdhouses being erected illegally during this period.
“Action can be taken against them,” he told reporters after chairing the Penang Local Government Consultative Forum at the Caring Society Complex yesterday.
Chow said they continued to have meetings on the issue at state level and with the local councils, department heads and non-governmental organisations.
“We will hold another meeting with the National Heritage Department next week on the Integrated Swiftlets Industry Development Guidelines.
“We can consider various views but all the feedback on the guidelines will be raised at the Local Government National Council Meeting,” he added.
Earlier, a discussion involving the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh, the state Veterinary Department and several other NGOs was held.
Loh said many people had the wrong perception about the industry, saying the association was willing to compromise with the authorities but a win-win solution was needed.
“We have invested so much money into the business after being asked by the previous administration to set up the farms and now the government want us to just move out,” she said.
“There are claims the industry will be a threat to the Unesco listing but I am sure when the status was given, the relevant authorities knew about the industry in George Town.
“The swiftlets are a living heritage and were around even before the Unesco status was accorded,” she added.
Loh asked where the hundreds of swiftlets would go if their natural habitat was to be destroyed.
“Moving out of George Town is not negotiable. In theory, everything can be done but in practice the situation is different,” she added.
Penang municipal councillor Lim Kah Cheng said it was not possible to farm in urban areas, especially in George Town.
“If swiftlets are allowed, then how are we going to stop others from having chicken farms?” she asked.
“The new government will not follow what has been enforced by the previous administration,” she said, adding that there were laws and regulations to be followed.
Malaysian Nature Society branch chairman D. Kanda Kumar said it was up to the state to adopt the guidelines.
“We are not against swiftlet farming but I think the farms should be located in suitable areas,” he added.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
National guidelines not swift in coming
Tuesday July 27, 2010
The Star
PENANG will seek the input from stakeholders once it gets hold of the National Guidelines For Swiftlet Breeding which was passed in Cabinet about two weeks ago.
State Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state was given a briefing by National Veterinary Department representatives prior to the passing of the new guidelines but “without much details”.
“Our officer have been requesting for the new guidelines these past two weeks but to date, we have yet to receive a copy.
“During the briefing, we also expressed our dismay that the consultation for the guidelines did not involve any heritage NGOs or World Heritage Office representatives.
“Those consulted were mainly swiftlets’ industry players,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Chow added that the industry players’ main focus is on the monetary side even though they claimed that by turning old houses into a bird house, they are doing heritage protection a service.
“But the bird houses make it a challenge for people to live, at times forcing the neighbours to move, and thus affect the living heritage aspect,” he said.
It was reported that at least 8% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings in inner George Town have been restored and rehabilitated by bird nest breeders.
Penang Heritage Trust council member Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson said the health and safety issues are among the main concerns.
“Imagine the pollution from noise and bird droppings. It is in the state’s hands to make a policy and set a guideline on swiftlet houses.”
Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh had said that the droppings outside belonged to pigeons, adding that swiftlets are very particular and only release their droppings in the house.
She had also suggested that the state Health Department issue breeders with a health certificate which can be revoked if the cleanliness is not maintained.
The Star
PENANG will seek the input from stakeholders once it gets hold of the National Guidelines For Swiftlet Breeding which was passed in Cabinet about two weeks ago.
State Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state was given a briefing by National Veterinary Department representatives prior to the passing of the new guidelines but “without much details”.
“Our officer have been requesting for the new guidelines these past two weeks but to date, we have yet to receive a copy.
“During the briefing, we also expressed our dismay that the consultation for the guidelines did not involve any heritage NGOs or World Heritage Office representatives.
“Those consulted were mainly swiftlets’ industry players,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Chow added that the industry players’ main focus is on the monetary side even though they claimed that by turning old houses into a bird house, they are doing heritage protection a service.
“But the bird houses make it a challenge for people to live, at times forcing the neighbours to move, and thus affect the living heritage aspect,” he said.
It was reported that at least 8% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings in inner George Town have been restored and rehabilitated by bird nest breeders.
Penang Heritage Trust council member Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson said the health and safety issues are among the main concerns.
“Imagine the pollution from noise and bird droppings. It is in the state’s hands to make a policy and set a guideline on swiftlet houses.”
Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh had said that the droppings outside belonged to pigeons, adding that swiftlets are very particular and only release their droppings in the house.
She had also suggested that the state Health Department issue breeders with a health certificate which can be revoked if the cleanliness is not maintained.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Not so chirpy residents - Country Heights BirdHouse
By PRIYA MENON
priya@thestar.com.my Photo by M. AZHAR | Jul 2, 2010
Massive: The three-storey structure built on a hill next to Country Heights Damansara, Kuala Lumpur.
RESIDENTS of Country Heights Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, are resenting the bird calls they hear every day and night from an illegal bird nest building next door.
The massive three-storey structure built on a hill near the posh neighbourhood has been there for more than six months and attracts a large number of swiftlets into the building.
At first, residents were puzzled by the constant noise from the jungle that never ceased until they discovered the activity.
“We were surprised that the jungle was so noisy, then we found out that an electronic musical sound mimicking birds had been placed inside the building to attract the swiftlets,” said Pete Meehan.
He added that people bought the RM8mil to RM10mil homes to enjoy peace and quiet only to be disturbed by the sound of birds.
According to another resident, Ang Kim Jhew, they have made at least six complaints to the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) since April.
“We were later told the problem is under the Department of Environment (DoE) and we complained to them as well. DoE later sent a letter to the DBKL supporting our complaint,” added Ang.
However, no action has been taken so far. They are also worried about environmental issues, including the droppings.
The residents contacted Segambut MP Lim Lip Eng to help them in their task.
“I have checked with the DBKL and they told me that there has been no permit for bird’s nest harvesting in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Lim and StarMetro visited the site and found another structure being built.
When asked, the Indonesian workers who declined to be named, said the new structure was a section of rooms to be rented out.
The bird’s nest building was also locked and the workers said they did not have the keys to the building.
“We have not harvested the nests yet but there have been many birds coming and in out of the building,” said the worker.
Lim said he would lodge an official statement with the DBKL on behalf of the residents and would give the council two weeks to resolve the problem.
“I will ask that the man running the business be served a notice to close down the place and if the structure is illegal the owner will have to tear that down as well,” he added.
When contacted, DBKL’s corporate communications unit said they were aware of the problem and that the structure was illegal as it was built without a development order.
DBKL confirmed it will be taking action against the businessman as soon as possible.
The man, who did not want to be named, refused to talk to the press.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Guidelines On Swiftlet Farming In Sabah Out By Year End
June 19, 2010 18:49 PM
Bernama
KOTA KINABALU, June 19 (Bernama) -- The guidelines on proper swiftlet farming in all the 24 districts in Sabah will be issued before end of the year.
Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said the ministry, with the cooperation of government agencies, like the Wildlife Department, was in the process of formulating the guidelines.
"I'll call a meeting with the departments and agencies involved soon to fine tune the guidelines before they are given to swiftlet breeders," he told reporters after opening the 'Bah Futsal Kita' carnival, organised by the Sabah Broadcasting department and Telekom Malaysia Berhad here Saturday.
Last April 8, State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced a ban on swiftlet farming in the town areas on grounds that the activity posed health and environmental hazards as well as public nuisance.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
KOTA KINABALU, June 19 (Bernama) -- The guidelines on proper swiftlet farming in all the 24 districts in Sabah will be issued before end of the year.
Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said the ministry, with the cooperation of government agencies, like the Wildlife Department, was in the process of formulating the guidelines.
"I'll call a meeting with the departments and agencies involved soon to fine tune the guidelines before they are given to swiftlet breeders," he told reporters after opening the 'Bah Futsal Kita' carnival, organised by the Sabah Broadcasting department and Telekom Malaysia Berhad here Saturday.
Last April 8, State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced a ban on swiftlet farming in the town areas on grounds that the activity posed health and environmental hazards as well as public nuisance.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Ban all swiftlet farming activities
Wednesday May 5, 2010
The Star
SAHABAT Alam Malaysia (SAM) refers to the proposed move by the Penang Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow to move swiftlet breeding activities out of the urban areas.
The problem of swiftlet farming in urban areas has been happening for a long time. However, the problem lies not with the birds but with people when they convert buildings in urban areas into swiftlet farms to harvest the nests. The main issue affecting swiftlet farming operators in the various states is a combination of big profits and a lack of legislation governing the industry, which has seen countless swiftlet farms established illegally in populated areas.
Swiftlet farmers simulate the conditions of a cave in their buildings by installing humidifiers and boarding up vents and windows, leaving only small holes for the swiftlets to enter and exit. Speakers are installed to broadcast bird calls which help lure the swiftlets into the buildings to set up nests.
This has raised the ire of residents affected by the loud noise while the setting up of swiftlet farms in towns may also disrupt business, particularly those in the food business.
Many of these illegal farm operators, in a rush to make a fortune from the swifltet nests, often neglect the welfare and well-being of the birds. Due to their slow breeding cycle, edible nest swiftlets take about one month to build their nests and six weeks for their eggs to hatch.
Some impatient swiftlet farmers may not wait that long and they remove the nests even before the laying and hatching of eggs, or for the fledglings to mature. Causing unnecessary pain, stress or distress to the birds is an offence under the Animal Act 2006. There is hardly any monitoring of the activities of bird nest collectors by either the Veterinary Services department or the Wildlife Department, so how could these two departments ensure that harvesting is done without disturbances to the birds and their young? Moreover, since many are operating without licences, it is difficult to monitor their practices.
Monitoring and inspections are crucial to ensure that taking of nests are done without causing harm to the birds, their eggs and young. Many of these ignorant and irresponsible farmers may not conform to good farming practices to ensure that birds are not deprived of the basic necessities or subjected to cruelty or abuse and mishandling.
In view of all these concerns, SAM reiterates its stand for a ban on swiftlet farming activities and to allow the birds to live in their natural habitat.
SM MOHD IDRIS,
President, Sahabat Alam Malaysia, Penang.
The Star
SAHABAT Alam Malaysia (SAM) refers to the proposed move by the Penang Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow to move swiftlet breeding activities out of the urban areas.
The problem of swiftlet farming in urban areas has been happening for a long time. However, the problem lies not with the birds but with people when they convert buildings in urban areas into swiftlet farms to harvest the nests. The main issue affecting swiftlet farming operators in the various states is a combination of big profits and a lack of legislation governing the industry, which has seen countless swiftlet farms established illegally in populated areas.
Swiftlet farmers simulate the conditions of a cave in their buildings by installing humidifiers and boarding up vents and windows, leaving only small holes for the swiftlets to enter and exit. Speakers are installed to broadcast bird calls which help lure the swiftlets into the buildings to set up nests.
This has raised the ire of residents affected by the loud noise while the setting up of swiftlet farms in towns may also disrupt business, particularly those in the food business.
Many of these illegal farm operators, in a rush to make a fortune from the swifltet nests, often neglect the welfare and well-being of the birds. Due to their slow breeding cycle, edible nest swiftlets take about one month to build their nests and six weeks for their eggs to hatch.
Some impatient swiftlet farmers may not wait that long and they remove the nests even before the laying and hatching of eggs, or for the fledglings to mature. Causing unnecessary pain, stress or distress to the birds is an offence under the Animal Act 2006. There is hardly any monitoring of the activities of bird nest collectors by either the Veterinary Services department or the Wildlife Department, so how could these two departments ensure that harvesting is done without disturbances to the birds and their young? Moreover, since many are operating without licences, it is difficult to monitor their practices.
Monitoring and inspections are crucial to ensure that taking of nests are done without causing harm to the birds, their eggs and young. Many of these ignorant and irresponsible farmers may not conform to good farming practices to ensure that birds are not deprived of the basic necessities or subjected to cruelty or abuse and mishandling.
In view of all these concerns, SAM reiterates its stand for a ban on swiftlet farming activities and to allow the birds to live in their natural habitat.
SM MOHD IDRIS,
President, Sahabat Alam Malaysia, Penang.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Penang may follow Sabah in disallowing farming in urban areas
Wednesday April 21, 2010
The Star
By WINNIE YEOH
winnie@thestar.com.my
THE moratorium on swiftlet farming should not be taken as a sign that the state government is allowing the activity in urban areas, said Penang Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow.
“The moratorium has been extended thrice as the state is still waiting for the national guidelines on the industry from the Agriculture Department and the Veterinary Services Department.
“The state recognises the swiftlet farming industry as a revenue earning trade but it should be done properly. We are mulling over the idea of moving the industry out of urban areas such as George Town,” he said when contacted on Monday.
Lucrative industry: Young swiftlets in bird nests in one of the swiftlet houses in George Town.
Chow said the breeding activities should preferably be moved to an agriculture area, adding that there was no specifically zoned areas for swiftlet breeding in the state as this comes under the jurisdiction of the Veterinary Services Department.
He was responding to a decision by the Sabah Cabinet to ban swiftlet breeding from major urban areas three weeks ago.
Its Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai had placed the ban within all major towns, citing environmental and health threats posed by the birds as well as them being a nuisance.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution said the organisation lauded the move by Sabah and had been campaigning for an end to swiftlet farming in George Town.
“We hope the precedent set by the Sabah Government would be acknowledged and emulated by the Penang Government.”
Meanwhile, Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh said the existing houses in George Town should be allowed to continue because these birdhouses were set up following a 2005 state government guidelines.
“The guidelines allowed swiftlet farming and many birdhouses were erected on that basis.
“The swiftlet farmers have invested a lot of money and it takes at least three years to see returns.
“The association is all for guidelines and regulations, and we are ready to work with the local authority to maintain the houses,” she said.
The Star
By WINNIE YEOH
winnie@thestar.com.my
THE moratorium on swiftlet farming should not be taken as a sign that the state government is allowing the activity in urban areas, said Penang Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow.
“The moratorium has been extended thrice as the state is still waiting for the national guidelines on the industry from the Agriculture Department and the Veterinary Services Department.
“The state recognises the swiftlet farming industry as a revenue earning trade but it should be done properly. We are mulling over the idea of moving the industry out of urban areas such as George Town,” he said when contacted on Monday.
Lucrative industry: Young swiftlets in bird nests in one of the swiftlet houses in George Town.
Chow said the breeding activities should preferably be moved to an agriculture area, adding that there was no specifically zoned areas for swiftlet breeding in the state as this comes under the jurisdiction of the Veterinary Services Department.
He was responding to a decision by the Sabah Cabinet to ban swiftlet breeding from major urban areas three weeks ago.
Its Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai had placed the ban within all major towns, citing environmental and health threats posed by the birds as well as them being a nuisance.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution said the organisation lauded the move by Sabah and had been campaigning for an end to swiftlet farming in George Town.
“We hope the precedent set by the Sabah Government would be acknowledged and emulated by the Penang Government.”
Meanwhile, Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh said the existing houses in George Town should be allowed to continue because these birdhouses were set up following a 2005 state government guidelines.
“The guidelines allowed swiftlet farming and many birdhouses were erected on that basis.
“The swiftlet farmers have invested a lot of money and it takes at least three years to see returns.
“The association is all for guidelines and regulations, and we are ready to work with the local authority to maintain the houses,” she said.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Ban on swiftlet farming in town areas too premature
Monday April 26, 2010
The Star
RUBEN SARIO
sario@thestar.com.my
FOR years, a group of entrepreneurs in Sabah have been raking in the “big bucks” by harvesting swiftlet nests from all sorts of buildings, some purposely built while others using abandoned or disused structures such as shophouses.
Among those who jumped on the swiftlet farming bandwagon was former state assistant minister Datuk Karim Bujang, who built a concrete structure in his native Kampung Gadong in Papar district, some 29km from the city.
Asked whether swiftlet farming could be equated with swift cash, the Bongawan assemblyman answered without hesitation: “Yes.”
The numbers in the minds of many Sabah swiftlet farmers remember is this; the start-up cost for the business is in the region of RM200,000.
Once they are able to attract the swiftlets to nest in their structures, 150 pairs of birds can produce up to 1kg of nests.
And it is possible for farmers to harvest up to 10kg of nests every three months, earning them about RM50,000.
But some swiftlet farmers here suddenly found their wings clipped early this month when state Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced the state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming in all town areas.
Dr Yee said the ban came in the wake of concerns about the potential health and environmental problems caused by bird’s nest farming, apart from being a public nuisance.
He said the Sabah Government was encouraging bird’s nest farming but this should be done in areas with low population density.
That announcement caught swiftlet farmers offguard and a grouping representing them questioned the need as cities such as a Johor Baru and Ipoh had no such ban.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird’s Nest Industry president George Ng also wondered why the state decided to place a ban as the industry was still awaiting the Federal Government’s guidelines on swiftlet farming practices.
The ban has also caused confusion for some as the state’s announcement is not clear on whether the move covered just the populated areas or entire rating areas of a city or municipality. Worries about the impact of the swiftlet farming ban spilled over at the just-concluded sitting of the Sabah state assembly.
Among those who spoke up about the issue was Kiulu assemblyman Datuk Louis Rampas who said the ban could dampen entrepreneurial spirit among the people.
He said the government should not impose severe restrictions on the industry in the absence of any guidelines for it as yet.
Dr Yee and some of his state Cabinet colleagues then tried to assuage the concerns and criticisms raised following the announcement of the ban.
“We are encouraging swiftlet farming but it should be conducted in a proper manner, and this means no such activities in the city or town area.
“Swiftlet farming must be done in an area where it does not affect many people. Bear in mind this sort of activity is noisy and birds are known vectors of diseases,” he said.
Dr Yee’s Local Government and Housing counterpart Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said that the guidelines would be drawn up with the Sabah Wildlife Department to put in place a systematic development of the lucrative bird’s nest industry.
Back at the Sabah state assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin said swiftleft farming was a way for the poor to escape the poverty trap and that was why the government was encouraging the development of the industry.
Despite these assurances, some Sabahans cannot help but wonder whether the state is too premature in announcing the ban when the national policy on swiftlet farming has yet to be finalised. And they can’t help shake off the feeling that the state is putting the proverbial cart before the horse.
The Star
RUBEN SARIO
sario@thestar.com.my
FOR years, a group of entrepreneurs in Sabah have been raking in the “big bucks” by harvesting swiftlet nests from all sorts of buildings, some purposely built while others using abandoned or disused structures such as shophouses.
Among those who jumped on the swiftlet farming bandwagon was former state assistant minister Datuk Karim Bujang, who built a concrete structure in his native Kampung Gadong in Papar district, some 29km from the city.
Asked whether swiftlet farming could be equated with swift cash, the Bongawan assemblyman answered without hesitation: “Yes.”
The numbers in the minds of many Sabah swiftlet farmers remember is this; the start-up cost for the business is in the region of RM200,000.
Once they are able to attract the swiftlets to nest in their structures, 150 pairs of birds can produce up to 1kg of nests.
And it is possible for farmers to harvest up to 10kg of nests every three months, earning them about RM50,000.
But some swiftlet farmers here suddenly found their wings clipped early this month when state Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced the state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming in all town areas.
Dr Yee said the ban came in the wake of concerns about the potential health and environmental problems caused by bird’s nest farming, apart from being a public nuisance.
He said the Sabah Government was encouraging bird’s nest farming but this should be done in areas with low population density.
That announcement caught swiftlet farmers offguard and a grouping representing them questioned the need as cities such as a Johor Baru and Ipoh had no such ban.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird’s Nest Industry president George Ng also wondered why the state decided to place a ban as the industry was still awaiting the Federal Government’s guidelines on swiftlet farming practices.
The ban has also caused confusion for some as the state’s announcement is not clear on whether the move covered just the populated areas or entire rating areas of a city or municipality. Worries about the impact of the swiftlet farming ban spilled over at the just-concluded sitting of the Sabah state assembly.
Among those who spoke up about the issue was Kiulu assemblyman Datuk Louis Rampas who said the ban could dampen entrepreneurial spirit among the people.
He said the government should not impose severe restrictions on the industry in the absence of any guidelines for it as yet.
Dr Yee and some of his state Cabinet colleagues then tried to assuage the concerns and criticisms raised following the announcement of the ban.
“We are encouraging swiftlet farming but it should be conducted in a proper manner, and this means no such activities in the city or town area.
“Swiftlet farming must be done in an area where it does not affect many people. Bear in mind this sort of activity is noisy and birds are known vectors of diseases,” he said.
Dr Yee’s Local Government and Housing counterpart Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said that the guidelines would be drawn up with the Sabah Wildlife Department to put in place a systematic development of the lucrative bird’s nest industry.
Back at the Sabah state assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin said swiftleft farming was a way for the poor to escape the poverty trap and that was why the government was encouraging the development of the industry.
Despite these assurances, some Sabahans cannot help but wonder whether the state is too premature in announcing the ban when the national policy on swiftlet farming has yet to be finalised. And they can’t help shake off the feeling that the state is putting the proverbial cart before the horse.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Guidelines on swiftlet farming to be drawn up
Thursday April 22, 2010
The STar
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is drawing up guidelines on swiftlet farming as the state attempts to soothe ruffled feathers following a ban on birds’ nest ranching in towns.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Nor said the guidelines would be drawn up with the Wildlife Department with the aim of encouraging a systematic development of the lucrative birds’ nest industry.
“I want to stress that the ban on swiftlet farms in urban centres is not a move against the industry. We are very aware of the economic potential,” he told the state assembly.
He stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be regulated in a systematic manner.
“Our decision to ban such farming activities is for environmental, health and cleanliness purposes in the city and towns.”
The state, he said, had meant well in banning the farming of swiftlets in shophouses, commercial centres and other urban centres as it had the public’s welfare in mind.
However, the ban drew flak from businesses involved in the industry who complained about loss of income
The STar
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is drawing up guidelines on swiftlet farming as the state attempts to soothe ruffled feathers following a ban on birds’ nest ranching in towns.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Nor said the guidelines would be drawn up with the Wildlife Department with the aim of encouraging a systematic development of the lucrative birds’ nest industry.
“I want to stress that the ban on swiftlet farms in urban centres is not a move against the industry. We are very aware of the economic potential,” he told the state assembly.
He stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be regulated in a systematic manner.
“Our decision to ban such farming activities is for environmental, health and cleanliness purposes in the city and towns.”
The state, he said, had meant well in banning the farming of swiftlets in shophouses, commercial centres and other urban centres as it had the public’s welfare in mind.
However, the ban drew flak from businesses involved in the industry who complained about loss of income
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Sabah moves to streamline swiftlet farming policy
Published: Tuesday April 20, 2010 MYT 2:38:00 PM
Updated: Tuesday April 20, 2010 MYT 2:49:42 PM
The Star
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is moving to draw up policy guidelines on swiftlet farming as the state seeks to soothe ruffled feathers following its ban on bird nest farming in towns.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Nor said that the guidelines would be drawn up with Wildlife Department to put in place to encourage a systematic development of the lucrative birds nest industry.
''I want to stress that the ban on swiftlet farms in urban centres was not a move against the swiftlet industry as we are very aware of the economic potential, he told the house during question hour when the issue of the ban was raised.
''We want the industry to be regulated in a systematic manner. Our decision to ban such farming activities was for environmental, health and cleanliness purposes in the city and towns, he added.
He said the government had good intentions in banning the farming of swiftlets at shophouses, commercial centres and other urban centres in all towns as it was done in the greater interest of the general public in term of cleanliness and health issues.
The state cabinet decided to ban ranching of birds in all town areas statewide but the move drew flak as industry players urged the government reconsider the decision that would affect incomes of scores of people harvesting bird nests
Updated: Tuesday April 20, 2010 MYT 2:49:42 PM
The Star
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is moving to draw up policy guidelines on swiftlet farming as the state seeks to soothe ruffled feathers following its ban on bird nest farming in towns.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Nor said that the guidelines would be drawn up with Wildlife Department to put in place to encourage a systematic development of the lucrative birds nest industry.
''I want to stress that the ban on swiftlet farms in urban centres was not a move against the swiftlet industry as we are very aware of the economic potential, he told the house during question hour when the issue of the ban was raised.
''We want the industry to be regulated in a systematic manner. Our decision to ban such farming activities was for environmental, health and cleanliness purposes in the city and towns, he added.
He said the government had good intentions in banning the farming of swiftlets at shophouses, commercial centres and other urban centres in all towns as it was done in the greater interest of the general public in term of cleanliness and health issues.
The state cabinet decided to ban ranching of birds in all town areas statewide but the move drew flak as industry players urged the government reconsider the decision that would affect incomes of scores of people harvesting bird nests
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Swiftlet farming ban draws flak
Saturday April 10, 2010
The Star
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
newsdesk@thestar.com.my
KOTA KINABALU: A state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming in major urban areas is drawing flak among entrepreneurs of the lucrative birds’ nest business.
Swiftlet farmers are arguing that health and environmental issues should not be the basis of the ban as tests and studies had shown that those birds were not carriers of diseases.
In fact, Sabah Swiftlet House and Birds’ Nest Industry president George Ng said the large presence of pigeons in popular Gaya Street was dirtier than birds found in organised swiftlet farms.
He said major cities like Ipoh and Johor Baru had not stopped such activities.
Thus, he said, there was no reason for the state to ban the industry in major towns like Sandakan, Tawau and the city here.
Ng wondered why the state decided to place a ban as the industry was still awaiting the federal government’s guidelines on swiftlet farming practices.
The state government announced the ban several days ago. State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai explained that the decision to ban birds’ nest farming in the three towns was partly because it was a public nuisance.
Meanwhile, Sabah Progressive Party questioned the alleged double standards of Kota Kinabalu City Hall for not acting against two birds’ nest farms in the Gaya Street area despite numerous complaints.
SAPP spokesman David Chong said City Hall had shut down similar farms in the Inanam area but refused to act against these two farms in the central business district here.
“The state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming should be adhered to strictly,” he added.
The Star
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
newsdesk@thestar.com.my
KOTA KINABALU: A state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming in major urban areas is drawing flak among entrepreneurs of the lucrative birds’ nest business.
Swiftlet farmers are arguing that health and environmental issues should not be the basis of the ban as tests and studies had shown that those birds were not carriers of diseases.
In fact, Sabah Swiftlet House and Birds’ Nest Industry president George Ng said the large presence of pigeons in popular Gaya Street was dirtier than birds found in organised swiftlet farms.
He said major cities like Ipoh and Johor Baru had not stopped such activities.
Thus, he said, there was no reason for the state to ban the industry in major towns like Sandakan, Tawau and the city here.
Ng wondered why the state decided to place a ban as the industry was still awaiting the federal government’s guidelines on swiftlet farming practices.
The state government announced the ban several days ago. State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai explained that the decision to ban birds’ nest farming in the three towns was partly because it was a public nuisance.
Meanwhile, Sabah Progressive Party questioned the alleged double standards of Kota Kinabalu City Hall for not acting against two birds’ nest farms in the Gaya Street area despite numerous complaints.
SAPP spokesman David Chong said City Hall had shut down similar farms in the Inanam area but refused to act against these two farms in the central business district here.
“The state Cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming should be adhered to strictly,” he added.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Sabah’s swiftlet ban draws flak
The Star
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
KOTA KINABALU: A state cabinet decision to ban swiftlet farming within major urban centres is drawing flak among entrepreneurs of the lucrative bird nest business.
Swiftlet farmers are arguing that ''health and environmental issues should not be the basis of the ban as World Health Organisation tests and studies had shown that the birds are not carriers of diseases.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird Nest Industry president George Ng said that large presence of pigeons in the city’s popular Gaya Street was dirtier then the organised swiftlet farming.
He said major cities like Ipoh and Johor Baru had not stopped such activities and, as such, there was no reason for the state to ban the industry in major state towns like Sandakan, Tawau and the city here.
Ng wondered why the state decided to put in place a ban as the industry was still waiting for federal government guidelines for swiftlet farming practice.
State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai had said the decision to ban the bird nest farming in the three major towns was also because it was a public nuisance.
''Most swiflet farms in town areas use music to attract these birds to return home and this is turned off at 7.30pm. I think even karaoke centres are noisier then our music, Ng said, expressing hope that the state would reconsider the move.
Meanwhile, Sabah Progressive Party questioned the alleged ''double standards” of Kota Kinabalu City Hall for not acting against two bird nests farms in Gaya Street area despite numerous complaints.
SAPP’s spokesman David Chong said city hall has shut down bird nest farms in Inanam area but refused to act against two similar farms in the city’s central business district.
''The state cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming should be adhered to strictly and enforced, he added.
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
KOTA KINABALU: A state cabinet decision to ban swiftlet farming within major urban centres is drawing flak among entrepreneurs of the lucrative bird nest business.
Swiftlet farmers are arguing that ''health and environmental issues should not be the basis of the ban as World Health Organisation tests and studies had shown that the birds are not carriers of diseases.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird Nest Industry president George Ng said that large presence of pigeons in the city’s popular Gaya Street was dirtier then the organised swiftlet farming.
He said major cities like Ipoh and Johor Baru had not stopped such activities and, as such, there was no reason for the state to ban the industry in major state towns like Sandakan, Tawau and the city here.
Ng wondered why the state decided to put in place a ban as the industry was still waiting for federal government guidelines for swiftlet farming practice.
State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai had said the decision to ban the bird nest farming in the three major towns was also because it was a public nuisance.
''Most swiflet farms in town areas use music to attract these birds to return home and this is turned off at 7.30pm. I think even karaoke centres are noisier then our music, Ng said, expressing hope that the state would reconsider the move.
Meanwhile, Sabah Progressive Party questioned the alleged ''double standards” of Kota Kinabalu City Hall for not acting against two bird nests farms in Gaya Street area despite numerous complaints.
SAPP’s spokesman David Chong said city hall has shut down bird nest farms in Inanam area but refused to act against two similar farms in the city’s central business district.
''The state cabinet’s decision to ban swiftlet farming should be adhered to strictly and enforced, he added.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Swiftlet farming rules to be out in two months
Thursday April 1, 2010
The Star
By OH ING YEEN
ingyeen@thestar.com.my
THE state government will come up with guidelines on swiftlet farming within two months, Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) president Datuk Hassan Nawawi Abdul Rahman said at the full board meeting yesterday.
He was replying to councillor Tan Han Kuo’s question about guidelines for swiftlet farming as Tan said he had received complaints from residents.
“The swiftlet farming issue is not serious in Kajang. It is carried out in commercial areas in Semenyih and, as far as I know, there are no such activities in residential areas,” he said.
The Star
By OH ING YEEN
ingyeen@thestar.com.my
THE state government will come up with guidelines on swiftlet farming within two months, Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) president Datuk Hassan Nawawi Abdul Rahman said at the full board meeting yesterday.
He was replying to councillor Tan Han Kuo’s question about guidelines for swiftlet farming as Tan said he had received complaints from residents.
“The swiftlet farming issue is not serious in Kajang. It is carried out in commercial areas in Semenyih and, as far as I know, there are no such activities in residential areas,” he said.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Bird's nest: Finding the swift way to earn megabucks
2010/03/29
NST
Swiftlet breeding is a thriving business worth RM1.5 billion annually. The speed at which the industry has grown in the last few years poses a major dilemma for operators and the public due to the health risks, smell and noise. The government is now looking at giving the industry a much-needed framework to operate in a sustainable manner. CHUAH BEE KIM, ZAINUDDIN MUHAMMAD, M. HAMZAH JAMALUDIN, PATRICK SENNYAH and ROY GOH report.
Pix: A swiftlet hotel in Kuala Terengganu luring swiftlets with recorded sounds of female birds. — NST picture by Imran Makhzan
FROM caves at the Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, swiftlet breeders have now taken their business into cities and towns nationwide.
Malaysia now has about 50,000 swiftlet premises producing more than 12 tonnes of bird's nest monthly. The current price of bird's nest is between RM3,000 and RM4,000 per kg, depending on the grade.
Operators are keeping their fingers crossed for government assistance to take the business to a higher level.
Those in Johor, for example, want the government's nod for export licences.
If this happens, they are geared up to put the country on the world map as the biggest exporter of bird's nest.
Those in Negri Sembilan want help in getting halal and Sirim certification as well as the internationally-recognised Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point certification for their products.
They are also hoping to get the government's assistance to set up a research and development facility to enhance the quality and variety of the products.
Datuk Saipolbahari Suib, adviser to Persatuan Pengusaha Industri Sarang Burung Kulai, is confident the industry can achieve the dream if they are given the opportunity to export their harvest.
"Currently, we are sending the bird's nests to Indonesia for processing as we do not have the plants here. If the government can set up processing plants in every district, we will be able to do everything locally and export the products."
Saipolbahari, who is also chairman of JB Bird Nest Resources Sdn Bhd, hopes the government will give a grant of RM400,000 for the setting up of processing centres in every district.
"I am optimistic that we can make it big in the global market as the quality of our nests is one of the best in the market."
In Johor alone, there are about 5,000 bird's nest traders.
Negri Sembilan Association of Bird's Nest Traders president Datuk Lee Yuen Fong says there are about 40,000 breeders nationwide, of which 95 per cent are operating without licences.
"The reason for this is that there is still plenty of red tape and we hope this problem will be ironed out soon."
He says because it is a multimillion-ringgit industry, there are many unscrupulous parties trying to cash in on it.
"Another issue plaguing the industry is smuggling."
Complaints against the swiftlet industry are numerous -- noise pollution is a common gripe of anyone living next to a "swiftlet hotel".
To lure the birds, which breed in colonies, recorded sounds of chirping females are played constantly on speakers.
Saipolbahari says responsible breeders follow the guidelines set by the
Veterinary Services Department, where only a sound level of 40 decibels is permitted.
"Errant traders who do not follow this guideline should have their licences revoked."
Another concern is bird flu. However, Saipolbahari says swiftlets are the cleanest birds around.
"Moreover, the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species had carried out research on swiftlets in 2005 and the birds are not the species that cause bird flu."
Saipolbahari says swiftlet breeding is a godsend to many, especially during the economic downturn, as buildings which have been abandoned or cannot be rented out are revived when swiftlet breeders come in.
Bird's nest: Sabah needs guidelines
NST
2010/03/29
SABAH may be one of the biggest natural producers of edible bird's nest but when it comes to farming the delicacy, it is in its infancy.
Fewer than 100 people are licensed to trade in the nests throughout the state.
State Wildlife Department director Laurentius Ambu believes the industry will grow as more research is carried out and expertise comes in.
"There are signs of swiftlet hotel operators improving their earnings and having better farming techniques to spur the industry to greater heights.
"(In Sabah), there are issues that need to be addressed," says Ambu, who has conducted research in bird's nest farming for nearly a decade.
At present, there are no regulations to guide and monitor bird's nest farming. On top of that, there are negative perceptions about the birds and the business, he adds.
In the state, there are three key natural cave systems where swiftlets thrive. They are the Gomantong, Baturong and Madai caves.
"Gomantong is a government-owned cave while Baturong and Madai are considered heritage caves where the bird's nest trade is operated by the community.
"The three caves produce up to 20 tonnes of bird's nests, about a third of which are the white nests while the rest are black nests," says Ambu.
There are no statistics on how much money it brings to the state but as far as Gomantong is concerned, the contract for harvesting bird's nest comes with a reserve price of about RM20 million.
Ambu explains that the contract is tendered out to licensed contractors twice a year and the highest bidder gets the harvesting rights.
"For Baturong and Madai caves, it is governed by native laws."
The only law that covers bird's nest in Sabah is the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, which provides that anyone in possession of bird's nest or selling it without a permit from the Wildlife Department can be fined. Also, in major towns here, bird's nest farming is not allowed because it is illegal to "run a farm in an urban area".
"The solution is for the government, the local authorities in particular, to determine certain zones where it can or cannot be done. With this and better technology, I am sure the industry can grow," Ambu adds.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird's Nest Industry Association president George Ng Aun Heng agrees.
"Certain areas, like housing estates, may not be suitable for swiftlet farming but what about abandoned buildings? It can also be done at oil palm plantations or other big areas.
"If the government can come up with guidelines, I am sure farmers are willing to comply because this is a lucrative trade which requires a substantial amount of capital.
"There are negative perceptions, probably spread by people who are envious of the success of others, and most of them are untrue."
Ng says there are ways to minimise the noise and the smell at farms.
"It's a matter of educating the public and those who want to venture into the trade but, at the same time, we need commitment from the government because at the end of the day, it's the state that will benefit."
For that, the association, formed six months ago and which now has about 40 members, is on a drive to teach people about proper bird's nest farming techniques, apart from lobbying the government to introduce proper guidelines.
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