PUTRAJAYA: The supply of livestock for Hari Raya Aidiladha is sufficient to meet nationwide demand, says the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
Data from the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) as of April showed that local cattle and buffalo stock was at 35,127 heads, with imported supply at 16,845 heads.
“This brings the overall supply of cattle and buffalo for sacrificial purposes to 51,972 heads, surpassing the estimated requirement of 40,420 heads for mosques, surau and slaughterhouses nationwide,” the ministry said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported.
For goats and sheep, it said local stock amounted to 25,815 heads, with imported supply at 4,232 heads, bringing the total to 30,047 heads compared with projected demand of 22,424 heads.
Based on the projections, the ministry assured that livestock supply remains adequate to meet demand for sacrificial rituals for Hari Raya Aidiladha.
On infrastructure readiness, the ministry said 27 slaughterhouses operated by DVS across the peninsula are prepared to facilitate sacrificial slaughter activities.
“In addition, DVS has issued licences to 43 private slaughterhouses throughout the peninsula as of March 16 to provide authorised slaughtering services to the public,” it added.
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.
It also advised the public to refer to the Guidelines on Livestock Slaughter for Sacrifice issued by DVS to ensure it is carried out smoothly and in accordance with prescribed standards.
