KUALA LUMPUR,El Sky News – Sabak Bernam Member of Parliament Kalam Salan has proposed that the government consider alternative approaches to addressing issues surrounding pig farming in Malaysia, including importing pork from overseas instead of continuing local pig farming activities that have frequently sparked public opposition.
The Bersatu lawmaker said the pig farming industry has long struggled to reach a permanent solution, as nearly every proposed new location has faced resistance from nearby communities.
“There is no need to rear them locally; we can simply import pork, whether roasted pigs or processed meat, just like chicken. In Singapore, more people consume pork, yet they do not farm pigs locally, and the situation is more controlled and safer,” he said during the debate on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s royal address in the Dewan Rakyat.
Kalam noted that opposition to pig farming had previously occurred in several areas, including Kuala Langat in Selangor, Bukit Pelanduk in Negeri Sembilan, Benut in Johor, and Kampung Baru Cina, highlighting the ongoing challenges of public acceptance.
He explained that complaints over foul odours, which often trigger objections, are not caused by the animals themselves but rather by poor farm management and inadequate maintenance of facilities.
“I own an orchard, and wild boars often enter in groups of 15 to 20. The pigs themselves are not smelly. What causes the smell is the condition of the pens and how they are managed,” he said.
At the same time, Kalam stressed that Islamic prohibitions on consuming pork should not be interpreted as a justification to ridicule or demean the food choices of followers of other religions.
“As a Malaysian citizen, I too feel curious about trying pork and other animals. We only live once. But my religion forbids it, and that is why I do not consume it. The same applies to other animals prohibited by my faith,” he added.
He further emphasised that cultural differences and food preferences should be addressed with mutual respect, noting that many foods with strong smells are still widely enjoyed by society.
The issue has drawn renewed attention amid controversy surrounding plans for a centralised pig farming project in Selangor, which previously prompted a strong reaction from the Sultan of Selangor and a suggestion from the Prime Minister that the project be temporarily halted or relocated.
Following these developments, the Selangor state government decided to suspend the project while exploring more suitable locations and engaging with stakeholders to ease public concerns. ( Rahul Rezky )
