Sarawak pig exports generate USD39M as industry expands

The developments align with Sarawak’s goal of increasing annual pork production to 860,000 pigs by 2030. The targeted output is valued at about USD 367.4 million, reflecting the state’s ambitions for industry expansion.

Strengthening disease protection

Alongside production growth, the government continues to tighten biosecurity measures across the industry. Authorities are working to prevent the introduction and spread of foot-and-mouth disease and African swine fever.

Mr Rundi said the government is also improving regulations to support safe and sustainable pork exports to regional markets. These efforts aim to protect livestock production while maintaining confidence among trading partners.

Developing local feed resources

Sarawak is also strengthening an integrated animal feed ecosystem. The strategy focuses on using locally available raw materials, expanding commercial feed production, promoting research and innovation, and adopting circular bioeconomy approaches.

One initiative involves a subsidiary of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation, which produces affordable cattle feed from local raw materials. Feeding trials recorded an average daily weight gain of 1.2 kg, demonstrating the potential of locally formulated feed to support cattle productivity.

Advancing agricultural research

The state is promoting the development of the Sarawak Advanced Technology International University College Agricultural Park in Asajaya’s Tuanbelah area. The facility is being developed as a center of excellence for research, innovation, and commercial agro-industrial feed production.

Researchers have successfully formulated ruminant feed using sago palm and mangrove biomass, creating additional value from local resources. Universities and colleges are also exploring local plants and seaweed as alternative protein sources and micromineral supplements for animal feed.

At the same time, researchers are studying edible oral livestock vaccines and targeted probiotic strains to improve animal health and reduce reliance on traditional antibiotics. Through these combined efforts, Sarawak plans to further strengthen its livestock sector while increasing ruminant self-sufficiency to 25% by 2030.