Kuala lumpur: Modern livestock systems that focus on high biosecurity aspects are capable of controlling the spread of the African Swine Flu (ASF) effectively, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said today. This was in line with the National Agro-food Policy 2.0 that emphasised the use of modern technology as part of the transformation of the national livestock sector.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Sabu stated that ASF is expected to be a major obstacle in boosting domestic production and affecting the national self-sufficiency rate (SSR) for pork in the long run. He highlighted that transitioning to modern pig farming systems is a strategic step to ensure an increase in the SSR. This statement was made during a special chambers session at the Dewan Rakyat, in response to Khoo Poay Tiong (PH-Kota Melaka) regarding the national development plan to achieve the SSR and the need to strengthen research and development (R and D) efforts to curb the spread of ASF.

The minister stressed that his ministry, through the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), has been implementing R and D initiatives focused on detecting and understanding the ASF virus. This includes conducting a thorough study on the ASF virus genes using Whole Genome Sequencing, which would enable complete identification of information regarding the virus, including infection rates and genetic changes. This technology will also assist in identifying the cause of infections more effectively.

Mohamad also revealed that there are currently 15 licensed abattoirs for pigs in Peninsular Malaysia, located in Penang, Johor, Perak, Selangor, and Pahang. This data is based on official records of private operation licence holders. He added that the DVS would consider increasing the number of pig abattoirs if applicants submitted complete applications and met industry needs.