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 regulations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label regulations. 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.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
China complains about 2 M’sian bird’s nest factories using dangerous chemicals
Published: Saturday October 23, 2010 MYT 12:37:00 PM
Bernama
SEREMBAN: Two swiftlet nest processing factories have been using dangerous chemicals to make the nests look reddish so that it can be categorised as top quality.
However, China, the main importer of the nests, spotted the bid by the factories to cheat buyers and filed a complaint with Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, according to the ministry’s deputy minister Chua Tee Yong.
He said the factories have been ordered to stop operations and action would soon be taken over the use of the chemical, which could cause cancer.
Speaking to reporters after opening a course on swiftlet farming here Saturday, he also said that a guideline on swiftlet farming would be introduced this year to facilitate regulation by authorities on the industry.
He said there were about 6,000 swiftlet farming operators registered with the ministry, but believed the actual number of operators involved was twice the number. – Bernama
Bernama
SEREMBAN: Two swiftlet nest processing factories have been using dangerous chemicals to make the nests look reddish so that it can be categorised as top quality.
However, China, the main importer of the nests, spotted the bid by the factories to cheat buyers and filed a complaint with Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, according to the ministry’s deputy minister Chua Tee Yong.
He said the factories have been ordered to stop operations and action would soon be taken over the use of the chemical, which could cause cancer.
Speaking to reporters after opening a course on swiftlet farming here Saturday, he also said that a guideline on swiftlet farming would be introduced this year to facilitate regulation by authorities on the industry.
He said there were about 6,000 swiftlet farming operators registered with the ministry, but believed the actual number of operators involved was twice the number. – Bernama
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
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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.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
No room for swiftlets
Noise is certainly the main complain from irated residents nearby. Mindless and selfish birdhouse owners are to be blamed. This is a problem that is easy to resolve. The swiftlet association cah work closely with the councils to make swiftlet house owners comply or face being closed down permanently. When will these stupid swiftlet house owner ever learn?
Jackie
*******************************************************************************
Thursday August 26, 2010
The Star
WE REFER to the report “Group mulls legal action against Penang govt” (The Star, Aug 24) and wish to express our support for the state government’s initiative to move swiftlet farming away from the city.
My family stays in George Town. About seven years ago, someone set up a swiftlet farm two units away from our pre-war house. Later, several popped up in the vicinity as well and since then, we have to endure the ceaseless noise from the artificial bird sounds broadcast throughout most of the day.
This has severely affected our quality of life. On weekends, when we look forward to just relaxing at home, we have to put up with the aural assault.
The farm owners claim that the noise levels are within approved limits even though to us, it certainly doesn’t sound like it. Please imagine listening to your favourite piece of music, can you tolerate listening to it non-stop for hours, days and months? What more if it is high-pitched shrills.
Research has shown that prolonged and continuous exposure to unwanted noise can have a detrimental effect on one’s stress levels and mental health.
Most of these farm owners don’t stay in or even near the farms they own, yet they have no feelings that their actions are affecting dozens of households. There is an irony here as well. If claims by the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) that the success rate of swiftlet farming is just 30% are true, that would mean the people living near the other 70% of swiftlet farms are suffering for nothing!
Now we have farm owners like ASNI Penang president threatening to sue the Penang government if they are evicted. But what about the suffering neighbours? Can we sue the swiftlet farm owners for creating a public nuisance?
Dr Kenneth Khoo talks about the 2005 guidelines like it was something set in stone and can never be changed. Many things have changed since. George Town has been granted heritage status, investors both local and abroad have been buying up pre-war buildings and conservation and renovation projects have picked up pace all over the city. With this, businesses and residents will slowly but surely return. George Town has the ability to become a choice destination again.
Swiftlet farm owners in the town area should look beyond their own self-interest. If they are allowed to continue operating, what is there to stop anyone else from setting up another farm? Do you want to see the beautiful George Town turned into a hollowed out city like some smaller towns in Malaysia where most of the residents are swiftlets?
Furthermore, the state government is not even talking about banning swiftlet farming in the state, it is merely trying to move it to a more appropriate area where disturbance to the general public can be minimised.
ELISE LEE,
George Town.
Jackie
*******************************************************************************
Thursday August 26, 2010
The Star
WE REFER to the report “Group mulls legal action against Penang govt” (The Star, Aug 24) and wish to express our support for the state government’s initiative to move swiftlet farming away from the city.
My family stays in George Town. About seven years ago, someone set up a swiftlet farm two units away from our pre-war house. Later, several popped up in the vicinity as well and since then, we have to endure the ceaseless noise from the artificial bird sounds broadcast throughout most of the day.
This has severely affected our quality of life. On weekends, when we look forward to just relaxing at home, we have to put up with the aural assault.
The farm owners claim that the noise levels are within approved limits even though to us, it certainly doesn’t sound like it. Please imagine listening to your favourite piece of music, can you tolerate listening to it non-stop for hours, days and months? What more if it is high-pitched shrills.
Research has shown that prolonged and continuous exposure to unwanted noise can have a detrimental effect on one’s stress levels and mental health.
Most of these farm owners don’t stay in or even near the farms they own, yet they have no feelings that their actions are affecting dozens of households. There is an irony here as well. If claims by the Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry (ASNI) that the success rate of swiftlet farming is just 30% are true, that would mean the people living near the other 70% of swiftlet farms are suffering for nothing!
Now we have farm owners like ASNI Penang president threatening to sue the Penang government if they are evicted. But what about the suffering neighbours? Can we sue the swiftlet farm owners for creating a public nuisance?
Dr Kenneth Khoo talks about the 2005 guidelines like it was something set in stone and can never be changed. Many things have changed since. George Town has been granted heritage status, investors both local and abroad have been buying up pre-war buildings and conservation and renovation projects have picked up pace all over the city. With this, businesses and residents will slowly but surely return. George Town has the ability to become a choice destination again.
Swiftlet farm owners in the town area should look beyond their own self-interest. If they are allowed to continue operating, what is there to stop anyone else from setting up another farm? Do you want to see the beautiful George Town turned into a hollowed out city like some smaller towns in Malaysia where most of the residents are swiftlets?
Furthermore, the state government is not even talking about banning swiftlet farming in the state, it is merely trying to move it to a more appropriate area where disturbance to the general public can be minimised.
ELISE LEE,
George Town.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Consumers fall for Nest-y scam
Happy that the authorities are paying attention to the birdnest industry but unfortunately so far they seems to be more interested in publicising the negative side of this industry. I am sure they can score some brownie points as well by publicising the positives of the bird nest industry.
Not all red nests are fake. These guys forgot to mention that red nests occur naturally as well whether in caves or birdhouse.
Jackie
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Monday August 23, 2010
The Star
By NG CHENG YEE
chengyee@thestar.com.my
PETALING JAYA: “Blood nest” – a much sought after variety of bird’s nest – is actually tainted with dangerous chemicals to deceive consumers into paying double the price for a premium grade.
While the normal bird’s nest, which is ivory in colour, can fetch up to RM10,000 a kilo, the reddish “blood nest” fetches up to RM20,000 a kilo.
Traders justify the exorbitant price by claiming the “blood nest” is a premium grade of the Chinese delicacy.
In exposing this scam on Saturday, Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong said these tainted bird’s nests were dangerous to health and may even be fatal when consumed by humans.
He said the nests were either sprayed with iodine or stored at premises where there was high ammonia content to give them a uniform bright-red colour.
“Some also use karya gum (from a soft wooded tree) to give the bird’s nest its reddish colour,” he told The Star.
Chua advised the public against purchasing bird’s nest from dubious traders and urged the industry to practise self-regulation to ensure the quality and safety of the product.
He said that all bird’s nests must have a Veterinary Service Department health certificate before they could be exported.
Federation of Bird’s Nest Merchants Associations chairman Datuk Beh Heng Seong said the term “blood nest” was coined by conmen and that there was “no such thing”.
“Bird’s nest is made up of the saliva of swiflets and is ivory in colour. It is impossible for bird’s nest to be red in colour.
“The so-called blood nests have high levels of nitrates from the artificial red colouring added to it,” Beh said, admitting that many consumers had been deceived into paying a high price for the dangerous product.
He said a kilo of bird’s nest costs between RM8,000 and RM10,000 in the market depending on the grade while a kilo of the “blood nest” was between RM15,000 and RM20,000.
Beh said Malaysia produced some 240 tonnes of bird’s nest worth RM1bil a year and 90% of it was exported to China.
Asked whether the federation, comprising 19 associations and 10,000 members nationwide, had tried to rein in those who were cheating consumers, he said they were looking at educating consumers on bird’s nests and coming up with guidelines for the industry.
Meanwhile, Fomca secretary-general Muhd Sha’ani Abdullah urged the Health Ministry to issue guidelines on what a genuine bird’s nest was and to warn consumers of bird’s nests with added colouring.
He said so far, they have not received any complaint from consumers on the so-called “blood nest” but added that could be because consumers were unaware of tainted products in the market.
He suggested that the Health Ministry issue certificates for untainted products.
“Traders should also be responsible by making sure no harmful chemicals are used in their products,” said Muhd Sha’ani.
Not all red nests are fake. These guys forgot to mention that red nests occur naturally as well whether in caves or birdhouse.
Jackie
*************************************************************************************
Monday August 23, 2010
The Star
By NG CHENG YEE
chengyee@thestar.com.my
PETALING JAYA: “Blood nest” – a much sought after variety of bird’s nest – is actually tainted with dangerous chemicals to deceive consumers into paying double the price for a premium grade.
While the normal bird’s nest, which is ivory in colour, can fetch up to RM10,000 a kilo, the reddish “blood nest” fetches up to RM20,000 a kilo.
Traders justify the exorbitant price by claiming the “blood nest” is a premium grade of the Chinese delicacy.
In exposing this scam on Saturday, Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong said these tainted bird’s nests were dangerous to health and may even be fatal when consumed by humans.
He said the nests were either sprayed with iodine or stored at premises where there was high ammonia content to give them a uniform bright-red colour.
“Some also use karya gum (from a soft wooded tree) to give the bird’s nest its reddish colour,” he told The Star.
Chua advised the public against purchasing bird’s nest from dubious traders and urged the industry to practise self-regulation to ensure the quality and safety of the product.
He said that all bird’s nests must have a Veterinary Service Department health certificate before they could be exported.
Federation of Bird’s Nest Merchants Associations chairman Datuk Beh Heng Seong said the term “blood nest” was coined by conmen and that there was “no such thing”.
“Bird’s nest is made up of the saliva of swiflets and is ivory in colour. It is impossible for bird’s nest to be red in colour.
“The so-called blood nests have high levels of nitrates from the artificial red colouring added to it,” Beh said, admitting that many consumers had been deceived into paying a high price for the dangerous product.
He said a kilo of bird’s nest costs between RM8,000 and RM10,000 in the market depending on the grade while a kilo of the “blood nest” was between RM15,000 and RM20,000.
Beh said Malaysia produced some 240 tonnes of bird’s nest worth RM1bil a year and 90% of it was exported to China.
Asked whether the federation, comprising 19 associations and 10,000 members nationwide, had tried to rein in those who were cheating consumers, he said they were looking at educating consumers on bird’s nests and coming up with guidelines for the industry.
Meanwhile, Fomca secretary-general Muhd Sha’ani Abdullah urged the Health Ministry to issue guidelines on what a genuine bird’s nest was and to warn consumers of bird’s nests with added colouring.
He said so far, they have not received any complaint from consumers on the so-called “blood nest” but added that could be because consumers were unaware of tainted products in the market.
He suggested that the Health Ministry issue certificates for untainted products.
“Traders should also be responsible by making sure no harmful chemicals are used in their products,” said Muhd Sha’ani.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Penang Showcases One-stop Swiftlets' Breeding Centre
August 18, 2010 12:19 PM
Bernama
By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock
PENANG, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Apart from being a lucrative industry, harvesting edible bird's nest is also fast becoming a tourist attraction to this island which is known as the 'Pearl of the Orient'.
Massive destruction of swiftlets' natural habitats due to robust development has forced these birds to migrate to urban zones in search for safer 'homes'.
In the past few years, many swiftlet farms have sprouted in urban areas due to the handsome returns from the bird's nest industry.
In the heart of Georgetown, a city listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, AeroBio (M) Sdn Bhd has set up a one-stop centre at Market Street here to showcase the edible bird's nest industry.
HERITAGE ZONE
According to the company's Strategic Business and Corporate Planning Adviser, N.S. Yong, the centre which is located in the heritage zone of Georgetown, houses the urban swiftlets' habitat.
The centre also houses the bird's nest cleaning and processing centre, retail outlet as well as a food and beverage cafe that offers edible bird's nest refreshment.
"At the centre, visitors can obtain information, among others, on swiftlet farming and edible bird's nest cleaning," he told Bernama when met at the centre.
He said at the AeroBio centre, the swiftlets come and build their nests on their own free will as the centre does not install any sound system to 'draw or attract' the swiftlets.
"We only provide an environment which has more moisture and dimness to attract the swiftlets to build their nests in the premise," he said.
He said the birds have been here for many years even before the centre was set-up and that is the reason why he does not need any sound system to attract the birds.
CAVIAR OF THE EAST
However, Yong who has 15 years experience in the industry, said the swiftlets need about 40 to 60 days to build their nests before it is ready to be harvested.
"Usually 7.00pm-7.30pm is the peak time where many swiftlets return to their nests," he said, adding that the process of brushing, cleaning and moulding the bird's nests takes about three months.
He said the centre can produce about 8.0 kg of bird nest daily and its customers are mainly from Taiwan, China and Hong Kong.
Yong also said at the centre, visitors would have the opportunity to experience the fly-pass of the swiftlets over their head as the birds are free to fly and roam within the premises.
"Visitors will also experience the unique feeling of being inside the swiftlets' habitat and learn about the secret of what has been dubbed as the 'Caviar of the East' or commonly known as edible bird's nest," he said.
He said the centre is also equipped with a laboratory for the visitors to observe the process of cleaning and moulding the bird's nest.
"Our healthcare products are derived from our own farming house and the products include essence of bird nest", he added.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock
PENANG, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Apart from being a lucrative industry, harvesting edible bird's nest is also fast becoming a tourist attraction to this island which is known as the 'Pearl of the Orient'.
Massive destruction of swiftlets' natural habitats due to robust development has forced these birds to migrate to urban zones in search for safer 'homes'.
In the past few years, many swiftlet farms have sprouted in urban areas due to the handsome returns from the bird's nest industry.
In the heart of Georgetown, a city listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, AeroBio (M) Sdn Bhd has set up a one-stop centre at Market Street here to showcase the edible bird's nest industry.
HERITAGE ZONE
According to the company's Strategic Business and Corporate Planning Adviser, N.S. Yong, the centre which is located in the heritage zone of Georgetown, houses the urban swiftlets' habitat.
The centre also houses the bird's nest cleaning and processing centre, retail outlet as well as a food and beverage cafe that offers edible bird's nest refreshment.
"At the centre, visitors can obtain information, among others, on swiftlet farming and edible bird's nest cleaning," he told Bernama when met at the centre.
He said at the AeroBio centre, the swiftlets come and build their nests on their own free will as the centre does not install any sound system to 'draw or attract' the swiftlets.
"We only provide an environment which has more moisture and dimness to attract the swiftlets to build their nests in the premise," he said.
He said the birds have been here for many years even before the centre was set-up and that is the reason why he does not need any sound system to attract the birds.
CAVIAR OF THE EAST
However, Yong who has 15 years experience in the industry, said the swiftlets need about 40 to 60 days to build their nests before it is ready to be harvested.
"Usually 7.00pm-7.30pm is the peak time where many swiftlets return to their nests," he said, adding that the process of brushing, cleaning and moulding the bird's nests takes about three months.
He said the centre can produce about 8.0 kg of bird nest daily and its customers are mainly from Taiwan, China and Hong Kong.
Yong also said at the centre, visitors would have the opportunity to experience the fly-pass of the swiftlets over their head as the birds are free to fly and roam within the premises.
"Visitors will also experience the unique feeling of being inside the swiftlets' habitat and learn about the secret of what has been dubbed as the 'Caviar of the East' or commonly known as edible bird's nest," he said.
He said the centre is also equipped with a laboratory for the visitors to observe the process of cleaning and moulding the bird's nest.
"Our healthcare products are derived from our own farming house and the products include essence of bird nest", he added.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
National guidelines not swift in coming
Tuesday July 27, 2010
The Star
PENANG will seek the input from stakeholders once it gets hold of the National Guidelines For Swiftlet Breeding which was passed in Cabinet about two weeks ago.
State Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state was given a briefing by National Veterinary Department representatives prior to the passing of the new guidelines but “without much details”.
“Our officer have been requesting for the new guidelines these past two weeks but to date, we have yet to receive a copy.
“During the briefing, we also expressed our dismay that the consultation for the guidelines did not involve any heritage NGOs or World Heritage Office representatives.
“Those consulted were mainly swiftlets’ industry players,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Chow added that the industry players’ main focus is on the monetary side even though they claimed that by turning old houses into a bird house, they are doing heritage protection a service.
“But the bird houses make it a challenge for people to live, at times forcing the neighbours to move, and thus affect the living heritage aspect,” he said.
It was reported that at least 8% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings in inner George Town have been restored and rehabilitated by bird nest breeders.
Penang Heritage Trust council member Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson said the health and safety issues are among the main concerns.
“Imagine the pollution from noise and bird droppings. It is in the state’s hands to make a policy and set a guideline on swiftlet houses.”
Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh had said that the droppings outside belonged to pigeons, adding that swiftlets are very particular and only release their droppings in the house.
She had also suggested that the state Health Department issue breeders with a health certificate which can be revoked if the cleanliness is not maintained.
The Star
PENANG will seek the input from stakeholders once it gets hold of the National Guidelines For Swiftlet Breeding which was passed in Cabinet about two weeks ago.
State Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the state was given a briefing by National Veterinary Department representatives prior to the passing of the new guidelines but “without much details”.
“Our officer have been requesting for the new guidelines these past two weeks but to date, we have yet to receive a copy.
“During the briefing, we also expressed our dismay that the consultation for the guidelines did not involve any heritage NGOs or World Heritage Office representatives.
“Those consulted were mainly swiftlets’ industry players,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Chow added that the industry players’ main focus is on the monetary side even though they claimed that by turning old houses into a bird house, they are doing heritage protection a service.
“But the bird houses make it a challenge for people to live, at times forcing the neighbours to move, and thus affect the living heritage aspect,” he said.
It was reported that at least 8% out of an estimated 3,500 abandoned pre-war buildings in inner George Town have been restored and rehabilitated by bird nest breeders.
Penang Heritage Trust council member Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson said the health and safety issues are among the main concerns.
“Imagine the pollution from noise and bird droppings. It is in the state’s hands to make a policy and set a guideline on swiftlet houses.”
Association of Swiftlet Nests Industry president Carole Loh had said that the droppings outside belonged to pigeons, adding that swiftlets are very particular and only release their droppings in the house.
She had also suggested that the state Health Department issue breeders with a health certificate which can be revoked if the cleanliness is not maintained.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Not so chirpy residents - Country Heights BirdHouse
By PRIYA MENON
priya@thestar.com.my Photo by M. AZHAR | Jul 2, 2010
Massive: The three-storey structure built on a hill next to Country Heights Damansara, Kuala Lumpur.
RESIDENTS of Country Heights Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, are resenting the bird calls they hear every day and night from an illegal bird nest building next door.
The massive three-storey structure built on a hill near the posh neighbourhood has been there for more than six months and attracts a large number of swiftlets into the building.
At first, residents were puzzled by the constant noise from the jungle that never ceased until they discovered the activity.
“We were surprised that the jungle was so noisy, then we found out that an electronic musical sound mimicking birds had been placed inside the building to attract the swiftlets,” said Pete Meehan.
He added that people bought the RM8mil to RM10mil homes to enjoy peace and quiet only to be disturbed by the sound of birds.
According to another resident, Ang Kim Jhew, they have made at least six complaints to the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) since April.
“We were later told the problem is under the Department of Environment (DoE) and we complained to them as well. DoE later sent a letter to the DBKL supporting our complaint,” added Ang.
However, no action has been taken so far. They are also worried about environmental issues, including the droppings.
The residents contacted Segambut MP Lim Lip Eng to help them in their task.
“I have checked with the DBKL and they told me that there has been no permit for bird’s nest harvesting in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Lim and StarMetro visited the site and found another structure being built.
When asked, the Indonesian workers who declined to be named, said the new structure was a section of rooms to be rented out.
The bird’s nest building was also locked and the workers said they did not have the keys to the building.
“We have not harvested the nests yet but there have been many birds coming and in out of the building,” said the worker.
Lim said he would lodge an official statement with the DBKL on behalf of the residents and would give the council two weeks to resolve the problem.
“I will ask that the man running the business be served a notice to close down the place and if the structure is illegal the owner will have to tear that down as well,” he added.
When contacted, DBKL’s corporate communications unit said they were aware of the problem and that the structure was illegal as it was built without a development order.
DBKL confirmed it will be taking action against the businessman as soon as possible.
The man, who did not want to be named, refused to talk to the press.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Guidelines On Swiftlet Farming In Sabah Out By Year End
June 19, 2010 18:49 PM
Bernama
KOTA KINABALU, June 19 (Bernama) -- The guidelines on proper swiftlet farming in all the 24 districts in Sabah will be issued before end of the year.
Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said the ministry, with the cooperation of government agencies, like the Wildlife Department, was in the process of formulating the guidelines.
"I'll call a meeting with the departments and agencies involved soon to fine tune the guidelines before they are given to swiftlet breeders," he told reporters after opening the 'Bah Futsal Kita' carnival, organised by the Sabah Broadcasting department and Telekom Malaysia Berhad here Saturday.
Last April 8, State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced a ban on swiftlet farming in the town areas on grounds that the activity posed health and environmental hazards as well as public nuisance.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
KOTA KINABALU, June 19 (Bernama) -- The guidelines on proper swiftlet farming in all the 24 districts in Sabah will be issued before end of the year.
Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said the ministry, with the cooperation of government agencies, like the Wildlife Department, was in the process of formulating the guidelines.
"I'll call a meeting with the departments and agencies involved soon to fine tune the guidelines before they are given to swiftlet breeders," he told reporters after opening the 'Bah Futsal Kita' carnival, organised by the Sabah Broadcasting department and Telekom Malaysia Berhad here Saturday.
Last April 8, State Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai announced a ban on swiftlet farming in the town areas on grounds that the activity posed health and environmental hazards as well as public nuisance.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Heritage Heroes Keep Nation's Treasures Gleaming
June 02, 2010 15:44 PM
Bernama
By Ummi Nadiah Rosli
The first of two parts
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 (Bernama) -- The word itself may have come to sound like dusty shelves or stagnant water, but 'heritage' is not only about the blast from the past.
Whether it is an ancient archaeological site, a nostalgic building or a traditional art form, Malaysia's rich heritage are stories and memories that have shaped our identity.
And resonating with the past is not about being sentimental. In a country where ancient temples, mosques and churches can exist side by side, to turn our backs on a great and noble heritage is a great loss.
With the tapestry of local treasures, the Department of National Heritage (JWN) has been busy keeping our heritage trail alive.
Established four years ago, JWN's mission is to empower and champion heritage as the core identity of the Malaysian people's legacy.
GUARDIANS OF HERITAGE
The Commissioner of Heritage Emeritus Professor Datuk Zuraina Majid explained that the department's objectives were to conserve, maintain and protect the nation's cultural and natural heritage by research, documentation, enforcement and raising awareness on heritage.
To ensure the continuous presence of Malaysia's vibrant heritage, JWN undertakes several roles which mainly comprise of documentation, conservation and enforcement.
Enforcement works carried out are according to the provisions of the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645], and to issue heritage order and register the heritage items with the National Heritage Register.
An example of this is the guidelines governing swiflet farming that require only premises which have not been designated as Class 1 Heritage Building to be converted into a swiftlet farm.
..............
...................
Bernama
By Ummi Nadiah Rosli
The first of two parts
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 (Bernama) -- The word itself may have come to sound like dusty shelves or stagnant water, but 'heritage' is not only about the blast from the past.
Whether it is an ancient archaeological site, a nostalgic building or a traditional art form, Malaysia's rich heritage are stories and memories that have shaped our identity.
And resonating with the past is not about being sentimental. In a country where ancient temples, mosques and churches can exist side by side, to turn our backs on a great and noble heritage is a great loss.
With the tapestry of local treasures, the Department of National Heritage (JWN) has been busy keeping our heritage trail alive.
Established four years ago, JWN's mission is to empower and champion heritage as the core identity of the Malaysian people's legacy.
GUARDIANS OF HERITAGE
The Commissioner of Heritage Emeritus Professor Datuk Zuraina Majid explained that the department's objectives were to conserve, maintain and protect the nation's cultural and natural heritage by research, documentation, enforcement and raising awareness on heritage.
To ensure the continuous presence of Malaysia's vibrant heritage, JWN undertakes several roles which mainly comprise of documentation, conservation and enforcement.
Enforcement works carried out are according to the provisions of the National Heritage Act 2005 [Act 645], and to issue heritage order and register the heritage items with the National Heritage Register.
An example of this is the guidelines governing swiflet farming that require only premises which have not been designated as Class 1 Heritage Building to be converted into a swiftlet farm.
..............
...................
Monday, May 24, 2010
Swiftlet issue to Cabinet
Sunday May 23, 2010
The Star
SITIAWAN: Guidelines to regulate the country’s swiftlet farming industry will soon be tabled for approval at Cabinet.
Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said that the Swiftlet Industry Guidelines would cover all aspects of the sector, from licensing to exporting.
Kong, who is also Lumut MP, said that the guidelines would also cover downstream industries, restrictions against swiftlet farming in heritage buildings, hygiene and its impact on the public.
“We are finalising the details and they will be tabled soon,” Kong told reporters after handing out aid to his constituents here yesterday.
He said that the guidelines would be drawn up jointly by his ministry and the Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry and Natural Resources and Environment ministries, with input from both the Health and Information, Communication and Culture ministries.
Kong also said that all state authorities had been given the regulations to control local swiftlet farming while the guidelines were being drawn up.
“The local authorities have been given instructions on issuing licences to ‘swiftlet hotel’ operators.
“We have also given clear directives on how operators can install speakers to attract the birds and the volume of the sound permitted,” he said.
Kong added that operators should comply with the regulations.
Various groups had called for tighter controls of or even a ban on swiftlet farming in urban areas, citing health and environmental concerns.
The Star
SITIAWAN: Guidelines to regulate the country’s swiftlet farming industry will soon be tabled for approval at Cabinet.
Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said that the Swiftlet Industry Guidelines would cover all aspects of the sector, from licensing to exporting.
Kong, who is also Lumut MP, said that the guidelines would also cover downstream industries, restrictions against swiftlet farming in heritage buildings, hygiene and its impact on the public.
“We are finalising the details and they will be tabled soon,” Kong told reporters after handing out aid to his constituents here yesterday.
He said that the guidelines would be drawn up jointly by his ministry and the Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry and Natural Resources and Environment ministries, with input from both the Health and Information, Communication and Culture ministries.
Kong also said that all state authorities had been given the regulations to control local swiftlet farming while the guidelines were being drawn up.
“The local authorities have been given instructions on issuing licences to ‘swiftlet hotel’ operators.
“We have also given clear directives on how operators can install speakers to attract the birds and the volume of the sound permitted,” he said.
Kong added that operators should comply with the regulations.
Various groups had called for tighter controls of or even a ban on swiftlet farming in urban areas, citing health and environmental concerns.
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.
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