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 nuisance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nuisance. Show all posts
Friday, January 21, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Swiftlets part of inner city’s heritage, say breeders
Sunday December 27, 2009
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Swiftlets have been part of inner George Town even before the area was granted Unesco World Heritage status, according to Association of Swiftlet Nest Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh.
“These birds are Penang’s ‘living heritage’, and the fact that George Town was granted the status despite their existence means they have no impact on Unesco’s decision,
“It is not fair for the state government to force the breeders to move when they were permitted to operate under the 2005 guidelines for the Application of Licence for Birds Nest Industry, Penang,” she said yesterday.
Loh was commenting on Friday’s report stating that the one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December would jeopardise George Town’s heritage status.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had said that the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
However, Loh explained that it was a misconception that swiftlets’ droppings would destroy the facade of heritage buildings as they only defecated inside the bird houses.
The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Swiftlets have been part of inner George Town even before the area was granted Unesco World Heritage status, according to Association of Swiftlet Nest Industry (ASNI) president Carole Loh.
“These birds are Penang’s ‘living heritage’, and the fact that George Town was granted the status despite their existence means they have no impact on Unesco’s decision,
“It is not fair for the state government to force the breeders to move when they were permitted to operate under the 2005 guidelines for the Application of Licence for Birds Nest Industry, Penang,” she said yesterday.
Loh was commenting on Friday’s report stating that the one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December would jeopardise George Town’s heritage status.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution had said that the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines.
However, Loh explained that it was a misconception that swiftlets’ droppings would destroy the facade of heritage buildings as they only defecated inside the bird houses.
Friday, December 25, 2009
PHT: Nay to more time for breeders
Friday December 25, 2009
The Star
By WINNIE YEOH
THE one-year extension given to swiftlet breeders in Penang to continue their operation until next December will jeopardise George Town’s heritage status and its living heritage.
Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) president Khoo Salma Nasution said the state government’s decision to extend the moratorium on the breeders would be a breach of Unesco’s heritage management guidelines as building guidelines and by-laws would be violated.
She explained that a swiftlet breeding house required the gutting of its interior that would destroy the heritage quality.
It was reported recently that the state executive council made the decision in its meeting on Dec 16.
Picture above: file photo of swiftlets returning to roost at dusk in a pre-war building in Penang.
Cultural Heritage Advisory Team educationist Janet Pillai said a research conducted by Universiti Sains Malaysia and PHT showed that there were some 141 swiftlet breeding houses in the heritage core zone.
“These numbers do not include those in the buffer zone,” she said.
“Of the 141, 116 are heritage shophouses, 23 commercial buildings and two of unknown status.
“Only 26 are operating with licences and from October last year to this October, the Penang Municipal Council’s Building Department had issued 30 notices.
“There were eight proposals to demolish the illegal structures but only two were demolished,” she said.
She added that a report complete with statistics would be sent to the state and the National Heritage Department.
Pillai said the breeding houses usually required indoor pools to maintain humidity. This posed a serious dengue threat from mosquitos breeding in the pools while the noise from electrical tweeters was a nuisance.
Also, rodents and vermins thrived in such an environment.
“A harvest from an active bird house could rake in about RM30,000 each time,” she added.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Swiftlet industry in Sarawak ruffles feathers
Friday December 11, 2009 MYT 12:39:28 PM
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The edible swiftlet nest industry in this country is a highly lucrative one with the annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
However, a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of the swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against the idea of having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But places like Sarawak, though the swiftlet farms are forbidden in towns, still has to find a solution for more than 1,500 illegal swiftlet farms. Any attempt to eradicate the illegal swiftlet farms will bring negative impact to the industry.
So what is the best option in solving this problem to ensure that the effort to boost the industry is not derailed? The licensing issue cropped up in October last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary and raised many questions on the way the exercise was carried out.
During the exercise the swiftlet chicks protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 were left to die in the nests that were confiscated by the authorities. Those annoyed with the move even posted the video on the chicks' fate on the popular video sharing website Youtube.
The action taken by the local authorities has certainly ruffled some feathers, especially the swiftlet farmers.
Thus the Swiftlet Merchant Association in Mukah requested Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to help find a solution. The same request from the counterparts in Sibu and Sarikei followed suit.
The bottom line is that the farm owners wanted to continue operations in the existing premises with most of them being shoptlots.
But the local authorities are steadfast with their stand. Despite the edible swiftlet nest's huge commercial potential, Sarawak's 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves and this has made things difficult for the industry.
The director of Sarawak's Forestry Department who is also the Wildlife Controller for Sarawak Datuk Len Talif Salleh stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the existing laws.
Len Talif pointed out about 100 licenses have been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
"Most of the licenses approved are for the "oldplayers" who conform to the prerequisites.
"The rest were rejected as their proposed swiftlet farms are in towns," he said adding that enforcement measures would be taken against illegal swiftlet farms.
The licenses were issued for swiftlet farming in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of the swiftlet farms in agricultural areas. Nonetheless, the industry views the issuance of the licence as a positive development when in May, only two of the more than 1,500 swiftlet farms in the state were licensed.
Swiftlet farming also needs approval from agencies like the Land and Survey Department, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the local authorities.
And the good news is that the state government is to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu respectively with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
However, many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
Thus this scepticism has prompted a big number of swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns.
The swiftlet nest entrepreneurs also hope to adopt guidelines like the Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) for the swiftlets, so that they will be allowed to ply their trade within towns as done by their counterparts in Peninsula.
"We will follow this guideline," noted the protem chairman for the Sarikei Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Association Wong Hua Ting, which is in opposition to the state government's stand that the swiflet farming should only be carried out at agricultural areas or the proposed ecopark.
Swiftlet farming in populated areas could create pandemonium among the public especially when there are diseases involving this species of bird.
The Veterinary Services Department (VSD) has conducted more than 5,000 tests on the birds and have confirmed that the swiflet are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease.
The department is also preparing the guidelines on swiftlet farming and the draft proposals will be forwarded to the Steering Committee for the National Swiftlet Industry on Dec 14. The guideline known as "1GP" makes it compulsory for swiftlet breeding premises to be registered with department.
However, before the guideline could be adopted by the local authorities, it would be brought to the attention of the National Council on Local Government chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which is expected to meet March next year.
"The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner," said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
Regarding the guideline, Len Talif noted that the Sarawak state government is ready to adopt it as long as it does not contradict with the state ordinance which would be continuously enforced.
He also gave assurance that in future the nests would not be confiscated and instead a compound will be issued and only the equipment used will be confiscated.
This development is seen as a positive indication pertaining to enforcement but this does not mean it has opened the doors for all to start swiftlet farms without authorisation.
The government wants to see 100,000 swiftlet farms producing 500 tonnes of the bird's nest annually worth RM5 billion by 2020.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought after in China and Arab with the prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilogram. Thus the solution for this licensing issue is highly pertinent and all parties involved should work hand in hand to ensure that the edible bird nest industry remains vibrant and the nation stands at par with Indonesia and Thailand, the leading producers. - Bernama
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The edible swiftlet nest industry in this country is a highly lucrative one with the annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
However, a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of the swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against the idea of having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But places like Sarawak, though the swiftlet farms are forbidden in towns, still has to find a solution for more than 1,500 illegal swiftlet farms. Any attempt to eradicate the illegal swiftlet farms will bring negative impact to the industry.
So what is the best option in solving this problem to ensure that the effort to boost the industry is not derailed? The licensing issue cropped up in October last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary and raised many questions on the way the exercise was carried out.
During the exercise the swiftlet chicks protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 were left to die in the nests that were confiscated by the authorities. Those annoyed with the move even posted the video on the chicks' fate on the popular video sharing website Youtube.
The action taken by the local authorities has certainly ruffled some feathers, especially the swiftlet farmers.
Thus the Swiftlet Merchant Association in Mukah requested Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to help find a solution. The same request from the counterparts in Sibu and Sarikei followed suit.
The bottom line is that the farm owners wanted to continue operations in the existing premises with most of them being shoptlots.
But the local authorities are steadfast with their stand. Despite the edible swiftlet nest's huge commercial potential, Sarawak's 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves and this has made things difficult for the industry.
The director of Sarawak's Forestry Department who is also the Wildlife Controller for Sarawak Datuk Len Talif Salleh stressed that the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the existing laws.
Len Talif pointed out about 100 licenses have been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
"Most of the licenses approved are for the "oldplayers" who conform to the prerequisites.
"The rest were rejected as their proposed swiftlet farms are in towns," he said adding that enforcement measures would be taken against illegal swiftlet farms.
The licenses were issued for swiftlet farming in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of the swiftlet farms in agricultural areas. Nonetheless, the industry views the issuance of the licence as a positive development when in May, only two of the more than 1,500 swiftlet farms in the state were licensed.
Swiftlet farming also needs approval from agencies like the Land and Survey Department, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the local authorities.
And the good news is that the state government is to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu respectively with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
However, many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
Thus this scepticism has prompted a big number of swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns.
The swiftlet nest entrepreneurs also hope to adopt guidelines like the Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) for the swiftlets, so that they will be allowed to ply their trade within towns as done by their counterparts in Peninsula.
"We will follow this guideline," noted the protem chairman for the Sarikei Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Association Wong Hua Ting, which is in opposition to the state government's stand that the swiflet farming should only be carried out at agricultural areas or the proposed ecopark.
Swiftlet farming in populated areas could create pandemonium among the public especially when there are diseases involving this species of bird.
The Veterinary Services Department (VSD) has conducted more than 5,000 tests on the birds and have confirmed that the swiflet are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease.
The department is also preparing the guidelines on swiftlet farming and the draft proposals will be forwarded to the Steering Committee for the National Swiftlet Industry on Dec 14. The guideline known as "1GP" makes it compulsory for swiftlet breeding premises to be registered with department.
However, before the guideline could be adopted by the local authorities, it would be brought to the attention of the National Council on Local Government chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, which is expected to meet March next year.
"The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner," said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants' Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
Regarding the guideline, Len Talif noted that the Sarawak state government is ready to adopt it as long as it does not contradict with the state ordinance which would be continuously enforced.
He also gave assurance that in future the nests would not be confiscated and instead a compound will be issued and only the equipment used will be confiscated.
This development is seen as a positive indication pertaining to enforcement but this does not mean it has opened the doors for all to start swiftlet farms without authorisation.
The government wants to see 100,000 swiftlet farms producing 500 tonnes of the bird's nest annually worth RM5 billion by 2020.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought after in China and Arab with the prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilogram. Thus the solution for this licensing issue is highly pertinent and all parties involved should work hand in hand to ensure that the edible bird nest industry remains vibrant and the nation stands at par with Indonesia and Thailand, the leading producers. - Bernama
Dilemma over RM1bil swiftlet nest trade
Saturday December 12, 2009
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The swiftlet nest industry is highly lucrative with an annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
But a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But in Sarawak where there are over 1,500 such farms operating illegally in towns, any attempt to eradicate them will impact negatively on the industry.
The licensing issue cropped up last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary.
Furthermore, the Sarawak’s 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance also prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
Sarawak’s Forestry Department director Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the laws.
Len Talif pointed out that only about 100 licenses had been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
“Most of the licenses approved are for the ‘old-players’ who conform to the prerequisites,” he said.
All of the licenses were issued for swiftlet farms in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of them in agricultural areas.
The good news is, the state government plans to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
But many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
This has prompted many swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns, although this could create potential problem involving health issues.
Checks by the Veterinary Service Department which had carried out 5,000 tests on the birds confirmed that so far they are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease, but it is preparing a guideline making it compulsory for farms to be registered with the authority.
“The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner,” said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants’ Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought in China and Arab with prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilo.
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The swiftlet nest industry is highly lucrative with an annual turnover reaching RM1bil.
But a critical issue pertaining to the licensing of swiftlet farms within buildings located in towns may retard the industry if no solution is found.
Local authorities are against having swiftlet farms in towns as they can cause nuisance to the public and pollute the environment.
But in Sarawak where there are over 1,500 such farms operating illegally in towns, any attempt to eradicate them will impact negatively on the industry.
The licensing issue cropped up last year after the authorities conducted an exercise to clear up illegal swiftlet farms in Mukah town.
The move by the authorities has put many swiftlet farm owners in a quandary.
Furthermore, the Sarawak’s 1998 Wildlife Protection Ordinance also prohibits the species from being bred in other than its natural habitat like the caves.
Sarawak’s Forestry Department director Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state government wanted the industry to be developed in a controlled manner in accordance with the laws.
Len Talif pointed out that only about 100 licenses had been approved from the 600 to 700 applications received since May.
“Most of the licenses approved are for the ‘old-players’ who conform to the prerequisites,” he said.
All of the licenses were issued for swiftlet farms in Mukah, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Sarikei with all of them in agricultural areas.
The good news is, the state government plans to build three swiftlet ecoparks in Mukah, Sarikei and Bintulu with lots to be sold and rented out to those who are keen.
But many are sceptical that the bird will nest at the ecopark and feared the bureaucratic hassle.
This has prompted many swiftlet farm owners to seek exemptions and continue with their activities in the existing premises in towns, although this could create potential problem involving health issues.
Checks by the Veterinary Service Department which had carried out 5,000 tests on the birds confirmed that so far they are free from bird flu and Newcastle disease, but it is preparing a guideline making it compulsory for farms to be registered with the authority.
“The guideline will set the standard for all local governments. It will help traders and swiftlet farm owners to venture into this field in a more organised manner,” said the chairman of the Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants’ Associations Datuk Beh Heng Seong.
The swiftlet nest from this country is of high quality and is highly sought in China and Arab with prices fetching up to RM10,000 per kilo.
Friday, December 4, 2009
'Tap swiftlets potential'
NST
2009/12/04
A STATE assemblyman yesterday proposed a novel way to help sundry shop operators adversely affected by the influx of hypermarkets.
In debating the state 2010 Budget, Tee Siew Kiong (BN-Pulai Sebatang) said the government could kill two birds with one stone by allowing those affected to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels for bird nest farming.
He made the suggestion following the closure of many sundry shops which had failed to compete with hypermarkets, whose number was mushrooming in the state.
"Sundry shop operators stand to lose when pitched against hypermarkets as the latter have the capital to buy stocks in bulk and resell them at a much lower price than sundry shops," he said.
By allowing and assisting the operators to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels, Tee said this would allow them to continue to earn a decent living.
"Bird's nest has a huge and lucrative market in China, Hong Kong and other international places, so I urge the government to give it special attention and tap its potential," he said.
Tee said he was thankful to the state government for bringing the matter to the Federal Government's attention.
However, he said there was a need to have guidelines to govern swiftlet hotels which have become the subject of criticism by some residents because of noise pollution and hygiene problems.
He said banks had also become aware of the potential of the industry and had started to finance such ventures.
"It could be very beneficial to the state economy as Malaysia exported RM1 billion worth of bird's nest last year, which was equivalent to five per cent of the world market for the product," he said.
Tee also urged the government to simplify bird's nest exports and swiftlet hotel licensing so that the industry could grow even faster in the state.
2009/12/04
A STATE assemblyman yesterday proposed a novel way to help sundry shop operators adversely affected by the influx of hypermarkets.
In debating the state 2010 Budget, Tee Siew Kiong (BN-Pulai Sebatang) said the government could kill two birds with one stone by allowing those affected to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels for bird nest farming.
He made the suggestion following the closure of many sundry shops which had failed to compete with hypermarkets, whose number was mushrooming in the state.
"Sundry shop operators stand to lose when pitched against hypermarkets as the latter have the capital to buy stocks in bulk and resell them at a much lower price than sundry shops," he said.
By allowing and assisting the operators to turn their premises into swiftlet hotels, Tee said this would allow them to continue to earn a decent living.
"Bird's nest has a huge and lucrative market in China, Hong Kong and other international places, so I urge the government to give it special attention and tap its potential," he said.
Tee said he was thankful to the state government for bringing the matter to the Federal Government's attention.
However, he said there was a need to have guidelines to govern swiftlet hotels which have become the subject of criticism by some residents because of noise pollution and hygiene problems.
He said banks had also become aware of the potential of the industry and had started to finance such ventures.
"It could be very beneficial to the state economy as Malaysia exported RM1 billion worth of bird's nest last year, which was equivalent to five per cent of the world market for the product," he said.
Tee also urged the government to simplify bird's nest exports and swiftlet hotel licensing so that the industry could grow even faster in the state.
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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