GEORGE TOWN, Jan 18 — Pork supply in Penang is still sufficient despite the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak that affected 11 commercial pig farms here, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said Penang is an exporter of pork but currently is not allowed to do so due to the ASF outbreak.
“Even though some farms are affected by the ASF, the supply here is still above self-sufficient,” he said during a brief press conference after announcing a discount on premiums for the extension of leasehold land.
He said the state will not be bringing in pork from other states.
Meanwhile, on the disposal of infected pigs that were culled, Chow said the carcasses will be buried in vacant lands belonging to Penang Development Corporation (PDC).
He said PDC has a land bank that was not developed yet so these could be used.
“The sites for the burial of the carcasses are far from residential areas to lessen the impact on people,” he said.
He said this method will not leave a huge impact on the environment.
“So, if you notice officers in full personal protective equipment (PPE), don’t worry because they are doing their duty,” he said.
He added that burning the carcasses would not be practical due to the large number of pigs involved.
Last Friday, the state declared the ASF outbreak as a disaster after more than 25,000 pigs were infected.
To date, a total of 11 farms are affected and a total of 4,000 pigs from three farms have been culled and disposed.
According to the Veterinary Services Department (DVS), Penang has a total of 124 pig farms with a total of 267,348 pigs.
