Accra:Veterinary extension officers play an essential role in connecting government policies, expertise from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), and the farming community to enhance livestock productivity and bolster national food security.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin emphasized that the effectiveness of veterinary extension services should be assessed by farm-level improvements, such as reduced mortality rates among young livestock, increased milk yields and animal weights, and higher farmer incomes. He highlighted the need for Scheduled Planned Visits and Gross Margin Analysis to systematically evaluate intervention effectiveness using concrete data and evidence. Chan shared these insights during the 2026 Veterinary Extension Convention, themed 'Veterinary Extension A Driver for Productivity and Food Security,' which was also attended by Veterinary Services Department director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Noor Hisham Mohd Haron.
Chan noted that Malaysia's import dependency rate for beef and buffalo meat was 82.6 percent in 2025, with goat and sheep meat dependency at 90.7 percent. To reduce this reliance, the ministry aims for domestic production of about 50,000 metric tonnes of beef and buffalo meat this year, projecting the self-sufficiency ratio (SSR) to rise to 18 percent. This effort is supported by 68 satellite farms in seven states, which have produced over 45,000 head of livestock.
He further explained that this strategic direction is reinforced by the National Food Security Policy 2030 (DKMN 2030), which seeks to strengthen the livestock breeding industry, maximize domestic ruminant and dairy production, and enhance extension services to drive human capital development. Chan identified three key priorities for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security data-driven advisory services, improved coordination of assistance among agencies, and building farmer trust through consistent guidance and follow-ups.
During the event, Chan launched three DVS guidebooks on good animal husbandry practices for dairy cattle, goats and sheep, and feedlot cattle. He expressed hope that these guidelines would be fully utilized for training and field guidance rather than just serving as shelf decoration. Additionally, Chan awarded Perak DVS the Overall Champion award for Best Extension Services, which included RM500 in cash and a certificate of appreciation. This year saw 78 nominations across eight competition categories covering various aspects of veterinary extension services and projects.