In the heart of Sarawak, a revolution in pig farming is underway, promising to bolster food security and safeguard livestock health. The key to this transformation? Technology. During a recent visit to a state-of-the-art pig farm in Ensengei Baki, Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, highlighted how embracing modern technology can significantly mitigate the risk of livestock diseases, with a particular focus on African Swine Fever (ASF).
The farm, operated by Greenlife Agritech (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, is a testament to this technological leap. It employs a closed enclosure system, creating a controlled environment that minimizes disease risk and optimizes livestock growth. This isn’t just about keeping pigs safe; it’s about maximizing productivity and efficiency. The farm sources high-quality pig breeds from the United States and is equipped with advanced quarantine and disinfection facilities, ensuring a high level of biosecurity.
The implications of this technological adoption are far-reaching. For one, it addresses the pressing issue of ASF, a disease that has devastated pig populations worldwide. By creating a controlled environment, the risk of ASF and other diseases is significantly reduced, ensuring a healthier and more robust pig population. This, in turn, contributes to food security, providing a steady supply of pork for local consumption and potentially for export.
Moreover, the use of technology in pig farming isn’t just about disease control. It’s about efficiency and sustainability. The closed enclosure system, for instance, allows for better management of resources, reducing waste and optimizing feed conversion rates. This means that the farm can produce more pigs with fewer resources, making the operation more sustainable in the long run.
Greenlife Agritech’s ambitious plan to produce 144,000 pigs over the next seven years is a clear indication of the confidence in this technological approach. The project, scheduled in three phases, each lasting two years, aims to produce 48,000 pigs per phase. This is not just about increasing numbers; it’s about setting a new standard for pig farming in the region.
The visit by Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom underscores the government’s support for such initiatives. It’s a clear signal that the future of agriculture in Sarawak lies in technology and innovation. As more farms adopt these modern practices, we can expect to see a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable agricultural sector. This isn’t just about pigs; it’s about the future of food production in Sarawak and beyond.
