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 permit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label permit. 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.
Friday, December 31, 2010
No new permits for swiftlet breeding in Kajang
Friday December 31, 2010
The Star
By OH ING YEEN
ingyeen@thestar.com.my
THE Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) will not approve new applications for swiftlet breeding in commercial and residential areas until the Selangor government’s guidelines are drawn out, council president Datuk Hassan Nawawi Abdul Rahman said.
Councillor S.T. Chandramohan added that no action would be taken against existing swiftlet breeders.
“However, under the council’s Street, Drainage and Building Act, breeding of animals is not allowed in commercial and residential areas.
“Under the same Act, swiftlet breeders in commercial and residential areas are also at fault for the misuse of premises,” Chandramohan said.
On the issue on under-performing contractors, he said although a contractor is blacklisted, he might apply for jobs through another company.
“The council’s new policy is that when a particular contractor does not perform, he should not be given new projects,” he said.
It was also highlighted at the meeting that a stop-work order was issued to the owner of the Hulu Langat MCA branch building.
“We received complaints that illegal extensions were built and the council’s building unit have verified this. They applied for a fourth floor to be added and it was rejected for several reasons but they continued building it. They will have to demolish it,” Chandramohan said.
He added that until now the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has yet to approve the building plans as this did not follow requirements.
“DID advised them to strengthen the river banks but instead of doing that, one part of the wall has encroached the river.”
Kajang assemblyman Lee Kim Sin added that this affected the river flow.
Chandramohan also pointed out that a stop-work order was issued earlier because they had built a substation in the car park.
Meanwhile, in response to the state’s decision to ban the 1Malaysia logo, the council is covering those found at bus stops in the municipality.
“We will place bus schedules over the logo,” Hassan Nawawi said.
It was also announced at the meeting that upgrading work for 96 bus stops have been completed.
Funds for the project amounting to RM2.3mil were allocated by the Federal Government.
The Star
By OH ING YEEN
ingyeen@thestar.com.my
THE Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) will not approve new applications for swiftlet breeding in commercial and residential areas until the Selangor government’s guidelines are drawn out, council president Datuk Hassan Nawawi Abdul Rahman said.
Councillor S.T. Chandramohan added that no action would be taken against existing swiftlet breeders.
“However, under the council’s Street, Drainage and Building Act, breeding of animals is not allowed in commercial and residential areas.
“Under the same Act, swiftlet breeders in commercial and residential areas are also at fault for the misuse of premises,” Chandramohan said.
On the issue on under-performing contractors, he said although a contractor is blacklisted, he might apply for jobs through another company.
“The council’s new policy is that when a particular contractor does not perform, he should not be given new projects,” he said.
It was also highlighted at the meeting that a stop-work order was issued to the owner of the Hulu Langat MCA branch building.
“We received complaints that illegal extensions were built and the council’s building unit have verified this. They applied for a fourth floor to be added and it was rejected for several reasons but they continued building it. They will have to demolish it,” Chandramohan said.
He added that until now the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has yet to approve the building plans as this did not follow requirements.
“DID advised them to strengthen the river banks but instead of doing that, one part of the wall has encroached the river.”
Kajang assemblyman Lee Kim Sin added that this affected the river flow.
Chandramohan also pointed out that a stop-work order was issued earlier because they had built a substation in the car park.
Meanwhile, in response to the state’s decision to ban the 1Malaysia logo, the council is covering those found at bus stops in the municipality.
“We will place bus schedules over the logo,” Hassan Nawawi said.
It was also announced at the meeting that upgrading work for 96 bus stops have been completed.
Funds for the project amounting to RM2.3mil were allocated by the Federal Government.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Swiftlet farms not allowed on reserve land
Tuesday November 16, 2010
The Star
ELAN PERUMAL and STUART MICHAEL at the Selangor state assembly
WITH increasing encroachment by swiftlet farm operators in Kapar Tambahan Forest Reserve area, the Selangor Forestry Department will notify the Kuala Selangor Land Office to get the operators out of the area.
According to state agriculture, natural resources and entrepreneurial development committee chairman Yaakob Sapari, the Kuala Selangor land office had made a mistake in giving out Temporary Occupancy Land (TOL) inside the Kapar Tambahan Forest Reserve.
“This was not supposed to happen as it is under Forestry Land and the Forestry Department is unable to take any action due to this.
“The Selangor Forestry Department will submit a working paper to cancel the TOL on the land.
“Then, the Selangor Forestry Department can start replanting the area with forest trees,’’ said Yaakob, who was asked by Saari Sungib (PR-Hulu Kelang) on the illegal swiftlet farms at the Forest Reserve areas in Selangor and other forms of encroachment.
The Star
ELAN PERUMAL and STUART MICHAEL at the Selangor state assembly
WITH increasing encroachment by swiftlet farm operators in Kapar Tambahan Forest Reserve area, the Selangor Forestry Department will notify the Kuala Selangor Land Office to get the operators out of the area.
According to state agriculture, natural resources and entrepreneurial development committee chairman Yaakob Sapari, the Kuala Selangor land office had made a mistake in giving out Temporary Occupancy Land (TOL) inside the Kapar Tambahan Forest Reserve.
“This was not supposed to happen as it is under Forestry Land and the Forestry Department is unable to take any action due to this.
“The Selangor Forestry Department will submit a working paper to cancel the TOL on the land.
“Then, the Selangor Forestry Department can start replanting the area with forest trees,’’ said Yaakob, who was asked by Saari Sungib (PR-Hulu Kelang) on the illegal swiftlet farms at the Forest Reserve areas in Selangor and other forms of encroachment.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Bird’s nest production rises 36% last year
Wednesday November 3, 2010
By SHARON LING
sharonling@thestar.com.my
SARAWAK’s production of swiftlet nests rose by 36% from 2,095kg in 2008 to 2,854kg last year, with an export value of RM8.37mil and RM11.41mil respectively.
Planning and Resource Management Assistant Minister Naroden Majais said the increase showed that the industry had the potential to be successfully developed in the state.
He added that, as of October this year, the production was 1,757kg valued at RM7mil.
“Swiftlet farming is a potentially lucrative industry. The market price for swiftlet nests ranges from RM3,000 to RM10,000 per kg depending on the quality and grade of the nests.
“China is our biggest market for edible swiftlet nests, followed by Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia,” he told the State Assembly in Kuching in reply to Julaihi Narawi (BN - Sebuyau), Datuk Wan Abdul Wahab Wan Sanusi (BN - Sadong Jaya) and Abu Seman Jahwie (BN - Jemoreng).
Naroden said that two licences were needed for commercial swiftlet farming, one to construct the building for the swiftlets to nest in and one for the rearing of the birds.
He said the state received 1,111 applications for swiftlet farming from 2008 to Oct this year. Of this, 248 licences to construct buildings and two to rear swiftlets were approved while the rest were still being evaluated.
He added that the construction of swiftlet farms was continuously monitored to prevent illegal farming operations.
“The Forest Department and Sarawak Forestry Corporation conducted two inspections between 2009 and March this year, from which 418 swiftlet farming premises are being investigated.
“The state has also issued warnings to owners of illegal swiftlet farms. They are advised to submit the necessary applications,” he said.
By SHARON LING
sharonling@thestar.com.my
SARAWAK’s production of swiftlet nests rose by 36% from 2,095kg in 2008 to 2,854kg last year, with an export value of RM8.37mil and RM11.41mil respectively.
Planning and Resource Management Assistant Minister Naroden Majais said the increase showed that the industry had the potential to be successfully developed in the state.
He added that, as of October this year, the production was 1,757kg valued at RM7mil.
“Swiftlet farming is a potentially lucrative industry. The market price for swiftlet nests ranges from RM3,000 to RM10,000 per kg depending on the quality and grade of the nests.
“China is our biggest market for edible swiftlet nests, followed by Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia,” he told the State Assembly in Kuching in reply to Julaihi Narawi (BN - Sebuyau), Datuk Wan Abdul Wahab Wan Sanusi (BN - Sadong Jaya) and Abu Seman Jahwie (BN - Jemoreng).
Naroden said that two licences were needed for commercial swiftlet farming, one to construct the building for the swiftlets to nest in and one for the rearing of the birds.
He said the state received 1,111 applications for swiftlet farming from 2008 to Oct this year. Of this, 248 licences to construct buildings and two to rear swiftlets were approved while the rest were still being evaluated.
He added that the construction of swiftlet farms was continuously monitored to prevent illegal farming operations.
“The Forest Department and Sarawak Forestry Corporation conducted two inspections between 2009 and March this year, from which 418 swiftlet farming premises are being investigated.
“The state has also issued warnings to owners of illegal swiftlet farms. They are advised to submit the necessary applications,” he said.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Terengganu to introduce law on swiftlet farming
Published: Monday September 27, 2010 MYT 3:00:00 PM
The Star
KUALA TERENGGANU: Operators of swiftlet farming in Terengganu will be required to register their bird-houses with the Veterinary Service Department under a new law to be introduced soon.
State veterinary director, Dr Azizol Mohd Sharom, said a workshop was being held to review guidelines on swiftlet farming which had been introduced by the cabinet with a view of adapting them to the state's needs.
The guidelines issued by the cabinet were too general and they would be modified to meet local condition, he told Bernama here on Monday.
He said the three-day workshop, which began Monday, was attended by about 100 participants, comprising officials from the Health Department, the National Park and Wildlife Department, the local authorities and representatives from the swiftlet farmers association.
Dr Azizol said the department would also introduce a model swiftlet-breeding house that would be cheaper.
A model of the bird-house, costing about RM28,000, has been built at the Jerangau Veterinary Center in Dungun, he added. - Bernama
The Star
KUALA TERENGGANU: Operators of swiftlet farming in Terengganu will be required to register their bird-houses with the Veterinary Service Department under a new law to be introduced soon.
State veterinary director, Dr Azizol Mohd Sharom, said a workshop was being held to review guidelines on swiftlet farming which had been introduced by the cabinet with a view of adapting them to the state's needs.
The guidelines issued by the cabinet were too general and they would be modified to meet local condition, he told Bernama here on Monday.
He said the three-day workshop, which began Monday, was attended by about 100 participants, comprising officials from the Health Department, the National Park and Wildlife Department, the local authorities and representatives from the swiftlet farmers association.
Dr Azizol said the department would also introduce a model swiftlet-breeding house that would be cheaper.
A model of the bird-house, costing about RM28,000, has been built at the Jerangau Veterinary Center in Dungun, he added. - Bernama
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
‘Give us alternative site’
Surprise, surprise that swiftlet farmers are willing to relocate even if given new sites. Most likely these are new bh where there is not many birds. The established one will certainly find it impossible to move without losing all the birds.
Jackie
**********************************************************************************
Wednesday September 15, 2010
The Star
OPERATORS of swiflet farms in the heritage enclave in George Town are willing to relocate if the authorities identify a new location for them.
Association for Swiftlet Nest Industries (ASNI) president Carole Loh said there should be proper planning just like the relocation of hawkers and squatters.
“We are only requesting that we’re treated fairly in the relocation process,” she said when contacted yesterday.
She was commenting on the statement by state executive councillor Chow Kon Yeow that the state government would hold a meeting next week to work out a mechanism to implement the three-year grace period for swiftlet farms to move out of the George Town heritage enclave.
Chow said the meeting would involve ASNI, Penang Heritage Trust and other related organisations.
He was quoted as saying it was up to the state government to decide when the grace period would begin.
The issue of relocation arose after the National Council for Local Government had agreed on Sept 3 for swiftlet farms to move out of the Penang and Malacca heritage enclaves.
Loh said the operators were awaiting details on the relocation plan.
“It is almost impossible to move out without affecting the swiftlets as putting the birds in cages and moving them out is not the right way.
“Swiftlets will return to their nests as soon as they are released from the cage,” she said.
Jackie
**********************************************************************************
Wednesday September 15, 2010
The Star
OPERATORS of swiflet farms in the heritage enclave in George Town are willing to relocate if the authorities identify a new location for them.
Association for Swiftlet Nest Industries (ASNI) president Carole Loh said there should be proper planning just like the relocation of hawkers and squatters.
“We are only requesting that we’re treated fairly in the relocation process,” she said when contacted yesterday.
She was commenting on the statement by state executive councillor Chow Kon Yeow that the state government would hold a meeting next week to work out a mechanism to implement the three-year grace period for swiftlet farms to move out of the George Town heritage enclave.
Chow said the meeting would involve ASNI, Penang Heritage Trust and other related organisations.
He was quoted as saying it was up to the state government to decide when the grace period would begin.
The issue of relocation arose after the National Council for Local Government had agreed on Sept 3 for swiftlet farms to move out of the Penang and Malacca heritage enclaves.
Loh said the operators were awaiting details on the relocation plan.
“It is almost impossible to move out without affecting the swiftlets as putting the birds in cages and moving them out is not the right way.
“Swiftlets will return to their nests as soon as they are released from the cage,” she said.
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.
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.
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.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Need to ensure safety in swiftlet industry
=Mar 25, 2010
The Star
KOTA KINABALU: Swiftlet farming is a lucrative industry but steps must be taken to ensure it does not have a negative impact on the environment and the people.
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Peter Pang En Yin said there was a need to make sure the activity was carried out in specific areas.
“We have to bear in mind that local authorities do not allow swiftlet farming at shoplots or commercial lots in townships and urban areas as these properties are gazetted for residential, commercial, industrial and tourism purposes.
“They are not zoned for swiftlet farming so I advise those in the industry to wait for the endorsement of the Swiftlet Industry Guidelines (SIG) by the Federal Cabinet,” said Pang, who is also the State Youth and Sports Minister.
With SIG, local authorities could determine the zones allowed for swiflet farming and those involved in the industry would have a set of regulations to adhere to, he added.
Sabah Swiftlet House and Bird’s Nest Industry Association president George Ng had said that the SIG, reported to have the full support of the health, agriculture and agro-based industries and the Housing and Local Government Ministry, was supposed to be tabled at the Federal Cabinet meeting at the end of last month but was delayed.
If accepted, it would give the industry the much-needed framework to operate in a sustainable manner and put Malaysia ahead of leading bird’s nest producers like Indonesia and Thailand, he said.
The guidelines would also provide a framework to supervise the industry in a holistic way in terms of licensing, sampling, production and export particularly to China, he added.
Pang, the Karamunting assemblyman, said he was aware of developments in the industry and stressed he had nothing against the industry.
He pointed out that allowing swiftlet farming in industrial or densely-populated areas could have a negative impact in the health, business and safety aspects.
“We know how valuable birds’ nest are and this could trigger an increase in criminal activities in towns or industrial areas where swiftlet farming is allowed,” he said, adding that people would be worried about the droppings and noise from the birds.
Pang who is also Kosan chairman, said the state agency experienced some setbacks as a result of a swiftlet farm in an industrial area in Sandakan.
Kosan had rented four ground-floor shop lots in an industrial zone in Sandakan to expand its production line and provide jobs for 80 youths in the district.
“The management abandoned its plans after realising that the upper floors were occupied by a swiftlet farmer. Kosan wanted to avoid any health risks to its employees,” he said.
In response to Ng’s claim that the industry could boost property prices in Sabah, Pang said he was not convinced as swiftlet farming could cause the opposite effect.
“Zoning an area for swiflet farming can have a negative effect with property owners disposing their properties and tenants moving away.
An area for human occupation would be taken over by birds and this could cause a whole township to be deserted, he lamented.
Pang said a clean and healthy environment was important for the state’s tourism industry and tourists might feel uneasy if the places they visited had health risks because of swiflet farming.
“We do not want to see swiftlet houses next to hotels, seafood restaurants and shopping malls,” he said, adding that swiftlet farmers should not fall prey to agents or advisers in the industry.
Wait for the guidelines to be drawn up and consult local authorities before setting up business, he said.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Be fair in crackdown on illegal swiftlet farmers: SAPP leader
Borneo Post
March 10, 2010, Wednesday
KOTA KINABALU: City Hall must be fair when taking action against those who operate illegal swiftlet farming activities in the state capital.“How is it possible that action was taken against a swiftlet farmer in Inanam this month, but three similar activities are allowed to flourish in the city itself?” SAPP Api Api Central Liaison Committee (CLC) chairman.Datuk David Chong asked.
According to Chong, on March 2 this year, City Hall together with the State Wildlife Department took action against a swiftlet farmer who operated in farm in a three storey shoplot in Inanam.
There were similar activities in the city itself, but City Hall has turned a blind eye to what they are doing, he said, claiming that the illegal swiflet farming activities being carried out in Jalan Pantai, Australia street and Gaya street.
“By allowing them to continue operating showed that City Hall condoned such activities in the city area, but not in the outskirts.
“The question here is why is the swiftlet farmer in Inanam victimised? If City Hall is taking action against those in Inanam, then it must do the same for those in the city…. it must be fair,” he said.
Chong also said according to City Hall’s licensing unit, those who want to convert their shop lots for swiflet breeding must apply with it to have the licence changed.
The activity was deemed illegal if the person did not receive any approval, he said, adding that the Wildlife Department also confirmed that an approval from the department to carry out the activity must be obtained failing which the offender could be fined RM50,000.
He also hoped that the relevant authorities would not approve licences for swiftlet farming in densely populated areas like the cities because it would not only disrupt business, but also posed a health risk to the public.
March 10, 2010, Wednesday
KOTA KINABALU: City Hall must be fair when taking action against those who operate illegal swiftlet farming activities in the state capital.“How is it possible that action was taken against a swiftlet farmer in Inanam this month, but three similar activities are allowed to flourish in the city itself?” SAPP Api Api Central Liaison Committee (CLC) chairman.Datuk David Chong asked.
According to Chong, on March 2 this year, City Hall together with the State Wildlife Department took action against a swiftlet farmer who operated in farm in a three storey shoplot in Inanam.
There were similar activities in the city itself, but City Hall has turned a blind eye to what they are doing, he said, claiming that the illegal swiflet farming activities being carried out in Jalan Pantai, Australia street and Gaya street.
“By allowing them to continue operating showed that City Hall condoned such activities in the city area, but not in the outskirts.
“The question here is why is the swiftlet farmer in Inanam victimised? If City Hall is taking action against those in Inanam, then it must do the same for those in the city…. it must be fair,” he said.
Chong also said according to City Hall’s licensing unit, those who want to convert their shop lots for swiflet breeding must apply with it to have the licence changed.
The activity was deemed illegal if the person did not receive any approval, he said, adding that the Wildlife Department also confirmed that an approval from the department to carry out the activity must be obtained failing which the offender could be fined RM50,000.
He also hoped that the relevant authorities would not approve licences for swiftlet farming in densely populated areas like the cities because it would not only disrupt business, but also posed a health risk to the public.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Cabinet to look into bird’s nest guideline
Friday February 19, 2010
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The Swiftlet Industry Guideline, expected to be presented to the Cabinet next week, will give the industry a much-needed framework to operate in a sustainable manner.
The guideline, if accepted, will put Malaysia ahead of leading bird’s nest producers like Indonesia and Thailand.
“It will be the first swiftlet industry guideline in the world,” said Veterinary Services Department director-general Datuk Dr Abdul Aziz Jamaluddin.
The swiftlet industry is worth RM1.5bil annually.
The guideline, he added, would provide the framework to supervise the industry in a holistic way, including in terms of licensing, sampling, production and export of swiftlet bird’s nest abroad, particularly to China.
Dr Aziz said the guideline had the full support of the Health, Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry, and the Housing and Local Government ministries.
The speed at which the industry grew over the last few years has resulted in a major dilemma over the licensing of swiftlet-rearing premises in shophouses, due to the health risk, smell and noise.
Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants Association chairman Datuk Beh Heng Seong said the guideline would resolve the problem as owners of premises would have to agree with the conditions if they wanted to remain in business.
“It will become a standard for all local authorities,” he said.
Malaysia has about 50,000 swiftlet premises producing over 12 tonnes of bird’s nest monthly.
One kilogram of bird’s nest can fetch RM4,000. – Bernama
The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The Swiftlet Industry Guideline, expected to be presented to the Cabinet next week, will give the industry a much-needed framework to operate in a sustainable manner.
The guideline, if accepted, will put Malaysia ahead of leading bird’s nest producers like Indonesia and Thailand.
“It will be the first swiftlet industry guideline in the world,” said Veterinary Services Department director-general Datuk Dr Abdul Aziz Jamaluddin.
The swiftlet industry is worth RM1.5bil annually.
The guideline, he added, would provide the framework to supervise the industry in a holistic way, including in terms of licensing, sampling, production and export of swiftlet bird’s nest abroad, particularly to China.
Dr Aziz said the guideline had the full support of the Health, Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry, and the Housing and Local Government ministries.
The speed at which the industry grew over the last few years has resulted in a major dilemma over the licensing of swiftlet-rearing premises in shophouses, due to the health risk, smell and noise.
Federation of Swiftlet Nest Merchants Association chairman Datuk Beh Heng Seong said the guideline would resolve the problem as owners of premises would have to agree with the conditions if they wanted to remain in business.
“It will become a standard for all local authorities,” he said.
Malaysia has about 50,000 swiftlet premises producing over 12 tonnes of bird’s nest monthly.
One kilogram of bird’s nest can fetch RM4,000. – Bernama
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 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
Friday, December 4, 2009
Local authority plans to look into ways to legalise swiftlet breeders
Friday December 4, 2009
By ELAN PERUMAL
THE Kuala Selangor District Council is hoping to collect more than RM100,000 on licensing fee from swiftlet breeders in the district.
The council has set up a task force comprising council officials and professionals to look into ways of licensing the more than 100 breeders.
Councillor K. N. Chandran said the council was looking into the possibility of collecting RM1,000 on annual licence fee from each breeder.
By doing so, he said, the council hoped to increase its revenue as well as control the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“Currently, the breeders are carrying out the activity at freely as they are not licensed.
“The task force will liase with the state government on how to legalise the breeders,’’ he said, adding that state was now drafting regulations on breeding of swiftlets.
Under the licensing proposal, Chandran said, the task force was also supposed to identify suitable sites to move all the breeders to a centralised venue.
He added that the issue of swiftlets were hotly discussed during its full board meeting last month.
He said there had been numerous complaints from residents on the indiscriminate breeding of swiftlets at residential and commercial premises.
“Many of the councillors have expressed concerns over the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“We feel that the indiscriminate breeding is highly inconvenient for the residents and the birds may even pose a health hazard to people,’’ he added,
StarMetro had earlier highlighted the presence of numerous swiftlet houses in Kuala Selangor and Batang Berjuntai.
It reported that the breeders had conducted illegal extension of premises in order to turn them into swiftlet houses.
By ELAN PERUMAL
THE Kuala Selangor District Council is hoping to collect more than RM100,000 on licensing fee from swiftlet breeders in the district.
The council has set up a task force comprising council officials and professionals to look into ways of licensing the more than 100 breeders.
Councillor K. N. Chandran said the council was looking into the possibility of collecting RM1,000 on annual licence fee from each breeder.
By doing so, he said, the council hoped to increase its revenue as well as control the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“Currently, the breeders are carrying out the activity at freely as they are not licensed.
“The task force will liase with the state government on how to legalise the breeders,’’ he said, adding that state was now drafting regulations on breeding of swiftlets.
Under the licensing proposal, Chandran said, the task force was also supposed to identify suitable sites to move all the breeders to a centralised venue.
He added that the issue of swiftlets were hotly discussed during its full board meeting last month.
He said there had been numerous complaints from residents on the indiscriminate breeding of swiftlets at residential and commercial premises.
“Many of the councillors have expressed concerns over the mushrooming of the breeding houses in the district.
“We feel that the indiscriminate breeding is highly inconvenient for the residents and the birds may even pose a health hazard to people,’’ he added,
StarMetro had earlier highlighted the presence of numerous swiftlet houses in Kuala Selangor and Batang Berjuntai.
It reported that the breeders had conducted illegal extension of premises in order to turn them into swiftlet houses.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Industry players want more govt support
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
By THO XIN YI
SWIFTLET farming is gaining popularity in the country with many entrepreneurs setting up houses for the birds.
In Selangor alone, there are about 2,000 “hotels” for the swiftlets to build their nests.
One striking feature of the multistorey buildings is the absence of doors and ventilation holes.
Malaysian Federation of Associations of Bird’s Nests Merchants secretary Mah Swee Lye said the industry made its presence felt in the country about 10 years ago.
“Swiftlets began inhabiting vacant shoplots, to the surprise of the owners.
“Gradually, we picked up the know-how from our Indonesian counterparts, who have been in the business for at least 80 years, and brought the knowledge back here,” he said.
Currently, Indonesia still tops the bird’s nest supply chain by catering to 80% of the demand worldwide, followed by Malaysia, Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
“The competition is intense. A swiftlet farmer needs both expertise and luck to succeed,” Mah said.
The owners of the bird houses do not actually rear the swiftlets.
Instead, they only set up the ‘hotel’ with the right temperature (28°C) and humidity (85%) to provide a suitable habitat, and then install the swiftlet tweeters to attract the birds.
“The swiftlets usually leave the house in the morning to hunt for food, and then return in the evening.
“They can live in the same house for generations,” Mah said.
He added that harvesting the nests did not deprive the birds of a place to stay.
“Swiftlets build nests only when it is time to lay eggs and once the birds learn to fly, the nests can safely be harvested.
“The birds do not sleep in the nests but perch vertically on the wooden planks.
“If their nests have been harvested, they will make new ones when it is time for another reproductive cycle,” Mah said.
The noise and hygiene issues of the industry often draw criticism and objections from the public, but Mah said a responsible farmer could eliminate these potential problems.
“The speakers should be positioned in such a way that they face the sky instead of the opposite buildings, and they should be switched off at night.
“A bird house should also be cleaned every two weeks to clear the faeces but some operators have the misconception that the smell attracts more birds,” he said.
Mah said the bird droppings made good fertiliser.
Nevertheless, the federation is pushing for the new guidelines to be implemented to achieve a win-win situation for the operators and the public.
“The federation’s chairman, Datuk Beh Heng Seong, has recently launched the guidelines in Kedah.
“One of the clauses is that new bird houses can only be constructed in light industrial areas, agricultural land and city outskirts,” Mah said.
He also hoped that the federal government could support and legalise the industry nationwide as the operators had difficulty in obtaining bank loans to start this business.
The Star
By THO XIN YI
SWIFTLET farming is gaining popularity in the country with many entrepreneurs setting up houses for the birds.
In Selangor alone, there are about 2,000 “hotels” for the swiftlets to build their nests.
One striking feature of the multistorey buildings is the absence of doors and ventilation holes.
Malaysian Federation of Associations of Bird’s Nests Merchants secretary Mah Swee Lye said the industry made its presence felt in the country about 10 years ago.
“Swiftlets began inhabiting vacant shoplots, to the surprise of the owners.
“Gradually, we picked up the know-how from our Indonesian counterparts, who have been in the business for at least 80 years, and brought the knowledge back here,” he said.
Currently, Indonesia still tops the bird’s nest supply chain by catering to 80% of the demand worldwide, followed by Malaysia, Thailand and other South-East Asian countries.
“The competition is intense. A swiftlet farmer needs both expertise and luck to succeed,” Mah said.
The owners of the bird houses do not actually rear the swiftlets.
Instead, they only set up the ‘hotel’ with the right temperature (28°C) and humidity (85%) to provide a suitable habitat, and then install the swiftlet tweeters to attract the birds.
“The swiftlets usually leave the house in the morning to hunt for food, and then return in the evening.
“They can live in the same house for generations,” Mah said.
He added that harvesting the nests did not deprive the birds of a place to stay.
“Swiftlets build nests only when it is time to lay eggs and once the birds learn to fly, the nests can safely be harvested.
“The birds do not sleep in the nests but perch vertically on the wooden planks.
“If their nests have been harvested, they will make new ones when it is time for another reproductive cycle,” Mah said.
The noise and hygiene issues of the industry often draw criticism and objections from the public, but Mah said a responsible farmer could eliminate these potential problems.
“The speakers should be positioned in such a way that they face the sky instead of the opposite buildings, and they should be switched off at night.
“A bird house should also be cleaned every two weeks to clear the faeces but some operators have the misconception that the smell attracts more birds,” he said.
Mah said the bird droppings made good fertiliser.
Nevertheless, the federation is pushing for the new guidelines to be implemented to achieve a win-win situation for the operators and the public.
“The federation’s chairman, Datuk Beh Heng Seong, has recently launched the guidelines in Kedah.
“One of the clauses is that new bird houses can only be constructed in light industrial areas, agricultural land and city outskirts,” Mah said.
He also hoped that the federal government could support and legalise the industry nationwide as the operators had difficulty in obtaining bank loans to start this business.
Three-month freeze on new licences in Sepang
Friday October 30, 2009
The Star
MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAB) will carry out a three-month Environmental Impact Study on swiftlets and its impact on bird strikes, Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) Town Planning director Yunus Kashib said after the MPSp fullboard meeting recently.
“MAB will do a comparison study of different airports such as those in East Malaysia as well as Indonesia, where the swiftlet industry is booming.
“There were two incidents where swiftlets were the cause, but only a DNA report, which will take three months, will determine which species was the actual culprit.
“The current licence holders can continue their activities but the council will not issue new licences for the time being,” he said.
The Star
MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAB) will carry out a three-month Environmental Impact Study on swiftlets and its impact on bird strikes, Sepang Municipal Council (MPSp) Town Planning director Yunus Kashib said after the MPSp fullboard meeting recently.
“MAB will do a comparison study of different airports such as those in East Malaysia as well as Indonesia, where the swiftlet industry is booming.
“There were two incidents where swiftlets were the cause, but only a DNA report, which will take three months, will determine which species was the actual culprit.
“The current licence holders can continue their activities but the council will not issue new licences for the time being,” he said.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Nest egg of swiftlet saliva
By Shah A.D
THE Teluk Intan Municipal Council has issued more than 500 permits for commercial swiftlet nesting activities since 2006, said its president Ibrahim Ahmad.
“The permits were issued on the conditions that the birds must be located away from housing areas and that the recording to lure the birds to the building must not be louder than 40 decibels.
“The council is working closely with the Department of Environment to monitor the breeding of the birds and also the harvesting of the bird’s nest,” he said at a meet-the-people session at the town hall in Teluk Intan yesterday.
The Prime Minister’s Department Public Complaints Bureau director Aziz Ismail, who was also present at the session, said he had received many compaints about the bird’s nest activities nationwide and investigations had shown that most of them were unlicensed
THE Teluk Intan Municipal Council has issued more than 500 permits for commercial swiftlet nesting activities since 2006, said its president Ibrahim Ahmad.
“The permits were issued on the conditions that the birds must be located away from housing areas and that the recording to lure the birds to the building must not be louder than 40 decibels.
“The council is working closely with the Department of Environment to monitor the breeding of the birds and also the harvesting of the bird’s nest,” he said at a meet-the-people session at the town hall in Teluk Intan yesterday.
The Prime Minister’s Department Public Complaints Bureau director Aziz Ismail, who was also present at the session, said he had received many compaints about the bird’s nest activities nationwide and investigations had shown that most of them were unlicensed
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