Dr Muhammad Iqmal Nurhaqim (fourth from right), along with his team and other participants at a butchering course for deer and lamb conducted by trainer Azaha Lasim (third from right). — Courtesy photo
FROM caring for animals to managing his own deer farm, Dr Muhammad Iqmal Nurhaqim Sarudin, 27, is determined to make livestock farming more sustainable and humane.
He currently focuses on deer farming at Kampung Baru Telor, Kota Tinggi, Johor, a venture he started with his family five years ago.
His interest in animals began in childhood through aquaculture, before shifting to livestock during his tertiary education years.
“I have always enjoyed caring for animals and breeding ornamental fish from a young age.
“When I pursued veterinary studies, I often assisted local farmers with animal health and nutrition,” he told StarMetro.
The veterinarian said he started rearing deer with his family for leisure, but the growing interest from locals encouraged them to expand their efforts.
“The response from the community opened our eyes to the potential of deer farming.
“I hope to open a small cafe near the farm, where visitors can experience the deliciousness of venison burgers for themselves.”
He said the animals at his farm are kept in an intensive feedlot system and cared for according to standards set by the Veterinary Services Department.
“As a veterinarian, it is also my responsibility to educate farmers about the right use of antibiotics and the withdrawal period before slaughter, so there is no drug residue in the meat.
“This is part of the process in ensuring safe and healthy food for consumers,” he said.
Dr Muhammad Iqmal Nurhaqim said he had also collaborated with local universities in waste management solutions using Internet of Things (IoT) systems, in an effort to reduce odour and pollution while improving farm sustainability.
He said his farm also engaged in seasonal goat and sheep trading, particularly during the Hari Raya Aidiladha period.
“The animals are sourced locally and from Australia, which are then processed at my own slaughterhouse before being sold directly to customers,” he said.
“I started a small ruminant slaughterhouse in 2023, before officially launching my business in August this year.
“This facility adopts modern mechanisation technology to ensure food safety, food security and animal welfare.
“It has been recognised as a state-level small ruminant slaughterhouse.
“We also provide services for external farmers.”
He is presently exploring a collaboration with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia to implement an IoT system for waste flushing and odour control.
“The system is still in the material selection phase.
“Once we have resolved the odour issue, I plan to set up a small cafe early next year so visitors can dine on-site.
“Venison is a lean meat that is high in protein, but still quite rare here.
“I want people to consider consuming it as a healthy alternative to other types of meat,” he said.
Despite challenges such as high operational costs and limited land, he believed agriculture holds great potential for the next generation.
“Young people have fresh ideas and energy. With science and technology, we can transform farming into something sustainable, efficient and forward-looking,” he said.
