THE Penang government does not intend to establish mega pig farms in the state as alleged by certain quarters, says Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman.
He brushed aside such an allegation, saying the state was in fact, working to restructure the pig farming industry to be more systematic to prevent environmental pollution, especially in Kampung Selamat and Kampung Valdor areas in Seberang Perai.
“It is a completely baseless claim against the state.
“The state is merely trying to restructure the industry to prevent pollution.
“We want the pig farmers to comply with the regulations and environmental guidelines when managing the wastes.
“This is our initiative,” said the Pinang Tunggal assemblyman.
State Agrotech and Food Security, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin said the allegation that the state was planning to establish a hub for mega pig farms was uncalled for.
Meanwhile, the Penang Pig Farmer Association has also dismissed the allegation.
Its consultant Wong Soon Ping clarified there were no such plans to build mega pig farms in the state as claimed by certain quarters.
“I hope this brouhaha can be put to rest and I am keeping my fingers crossed that everyone can cooperate to create a better environment for the state, instead of harping on any unfounded allegation.
“In fact, we are merely planning to convert pig farms into modern closed-door system to reduce the pollution impact on nature and its surroundings.
“This initiative will help to ensure a proper system for pig farming and reduce unnecessary pollution.
“After all, we are following the veterinary guidelines, adhering to the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and strictly maintaining the 200m buffer zone from residential zones,” said Wong, who is also the Kampung Selamat Utara Village Community Management Council (MPKK) chairman.
Wong said the modern closed-door farming system would also improve the water quality in the rivers.
“Everything is ongoing smoothly now,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix courtesy of the interviewees