PUTRAJAYA: There is enough livestock supply to meet demand for this year’s Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration, says the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
It cited Veterinary Services Department (DVS) data as of April showing that local cattle and buffalo stock stood at 35,127 head, while imported livestock supply totalled 16,845 head.
"This brings the overall supply of cattle and buffalo for sacrificial purposes to 51,972 head, surpassing the estimated requirement of 40,420 head for mosques, surau and slaughterhouses nationwide," the ministry said in a statement on Monday (May 25).
For goats and sheep, it said local stock amounted to 25,815 head, with imported supply recorded at 4,232 head, bringing the total to 30,047 head compared with the projected demand of 22,424 head.
Based on projections, the ministry assured that the country’s livestock supply remains adequate to meet demand for sacrificial rituals during Aidiladha this year.
On infrastructure readiness, it said 27 slaughterhouses operated by DVS across Peninsular Malaysia are prepared to facilitate sacrificial slaughter activities.
"In addition, DVS has issued licences to 43 private slaughterhouses throughout Peninsular Malaysia as of March 16 to provide authorised slaughtering services" the statement read.
The ministry said organisers intending to conduct sacrificial slaughter activities outside designated slaughterhouses, including at mosques, surau, schools, residential areas and public spaces, must obtain an external slaughter permit together with the necessary supporting documents.
The ministry also advised the public to refer to the Guidelines on Livestock Slaughter for Sacrifice issued by DVS to ensure the ritual is carried out smoothly and in accordance with prescribed standards. – Bernama
