SHAH ALAM, Jan 15 — The state government chose Bukit Tagar to house its new pig farm as it is located far away from residential areas, with the nearest neighbourhood being Felda Sungai Tengi 15km away, which would ensure cleanliness and prevent disturbances, said state executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Dato’ Izham Hashim.
He said the Bukit Tagar farm would be developed using modern and planned methods, and adhere to conditions set by the Veterinary Services Department (DVS).
“This farm is being built according to three main principles — as a buffer to prevent infections, as a closed system, and in line with the Zero Discharge Policy (ZDP), where recycled water is used to generate biogas and electricity to ensure farm operations don’t disturb nearby residents.
“This 500-acre (202.3ha) farm and its buffer zone allow farming operations to continue in a safer, more orderly way. Selangor doesn’t plan to add new farms, and additional needs will be fulfilled with imports,” he said when met at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Building here yesterday.
Izham added that Bukit Tagar is a suitable location for the pig farm as it is near a landfill and other farms, with a proposed catchment pool, which would ensure waste is processed on the farm to be used in biogas and electricity generation, without it flowing into rivers.
Previously, several parties voiced concerns that the pig farm in Bukit Tagar could pollute water sources and affect the Klang Valley’s raw water resource.
Izham said the state government is aiming to keep Selangor’s farmed pig numbers between 100,000 and 120,000, in line with plans for a more systematic, sustainable farming industry.
Yesterday, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the decision to move the pig farm from Kuala Langat to Bukit Tafar is to end traditional farming and start using modern methods.
Amirudin said the state government will hold discussions with farmers to explain the farm relocation process, compliance requirements, safety steps, and effects on their daily operations.
