Selangor: A total of 1,868 pigs from two farms in Selangor have been disposed of in an effort to control and prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Selangor director Dr. Hassuzana Khalil reported that these pigs are part of the 76,000 confirmed to be infected with ASF after tests conducted on livestock across 114 licensed farms in the regions of Sepang and Kuala Langat.

Dr. Hassuzana explained that the disposal method involved euthanasia using high-density carbon dioxide gas followed by burial in plantations, beginning on February 5. The initial disposal included 668 pigs from Sepang and 1,200 from Kuala Langat, adhering to the Malaysian Veterinary Standing Procedure Directive (APTVM). The remaining 74,000 pigs are scheduled for disposal in stages until March next year.

Inspections and surveillance have identified ASF disease presence in 56 out of the 114 pig farms. While uninfected livestock remain, pig transfers are permitted strictly for slaughtering purposes in licensed slaughterhouses. The Selangor DVS has implemented additional measures under the Animal Act 1953 to curb ASF spread, including tightening regulations on pig transfers within Selangor, ensuring movements are only for slaughtering purposes, and designating specific routes for transport vehicles.

Dr. Hassuzana stated that violations, such as transport vehicles found off designated routes, could lead to prosecution. The department has intensified monitoring efforts at state borders, leading to the inspection of 37 transport vehicles during Ops ASF, with six vehicles seized. Additionally, 68 pigs weighing approximately 9.4 metric tonnes were confiscated due to various offences under Sections 34 and 36 of the Animal Act 1953, resulting in seven investigation papers being opened for prosecution.