Sangaran uses the breedlot system at his farm in Bangi Lama, Selangor.
USING the breedlots system, where fodder and supplements are provided to cattle in yards and pens, is among ways to keep livestock from straying onto public roads and highways.
Selangor Veterinary Services Department (DVS) director Dr Hassuzana Khalil said cattle farmers were being encouraged to adopt the system, which improved productivity along with genetic quality through controlled environments and optimised practices.
“Selangor DVS consistently advocates for high-value, modern and sustainable livestock farming that is environmentally friendly to ensure that livestock farming remains a reliable food source in our rapidly developing state.
“We encourage industry players to adapt to current developments by adopting the breedlot system,” she said.
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Dr Hassuzana also acknowledged suitable land for livestock farming was limited in Selangor.
“Many cattle farming projects have had to relocate to areas that are quite far from the city, where the sites complied with land-use conditions according to the National Land Code,” she said.
Dr Hassuzana said DVS Selangor had told farmers not to allow their cattle to roam freely due to public safety and cleanliness.
“It is the responsibility of livestock owners to ensure their animals receive adequate food, have proper shelters and are kept in a safe environment,” she highlighted.
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She also said that farmers were encouraged to use part of their profits to acquire land or lease suitable areas for building proper shelters and growing grass.
“There are several areas gazetted as grazing land or for permanent food production to be used as animal feed.
“Applicants must already have an established livestock project.
“Only those with viable projects and reasonable future plans will be selected to lease the land of the Selangor State Land and Mines Office,” she said.
Dr Hassuzana said DVS’ core functions included managing animal diseases, preventing animal cruelty, regulating slaughterhouses and ensuring that animal products were safe for human consumption.
There are various assistance programmes available for livestock owners through state and federal allocations, she said.
“Farmers can apply for aid by contacting their respective DVS district office.
“Due to a shortage of certified veterinarians, some DVS offices can only perform basic treatments such as for fever, diarrhoea, bloating, and minor wounds.
“Treatments requiring X-ray facilities, such as for compound fractures, must be referred to facilities like Universiti Putra Malaysia’s Veterinary Medicine Faculty or private clinics.
“DVS does not provide free treatment services,” said Dr Hassuzana.
“Farmers are required to pay according to the Veterinary Centres Regulations effective from Oct 25, 2007.
“Under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-2025), the government assistance programme includes aid for livestock equipment, breeding stock, construction materials for expanding or repairing shelters, feed supplements and grass planting assistance,” she elaborated. — By VIJENTHI NAIR
