Selangor will import all pork to meet demand, phasing out local farms to address pollution concerns following the Sultan’s decree.

SHAH ALAM: The Selangor State Government has agreed that the industry will be responsible for importing all pork needed for the state market.

This decision aligns with a royal decree from the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the matter was decided by the State Executive Council. The issuance and approval of import licences will be referred to the federal government.

He noted that 70% of the non-Muslim community’s pork supply is currently sourced from other states.

“The decision was made to address the community’s concerns over the environmental impact of these farms, including odour pollution,” Amirudin said in a statement.

Since January, the state government has stopped issuing new pig farming licences. It is now focusing on clearing the existing farm site in Tanjong Sepat.

“For the pig farms currently in operation, the areas will be closed in stages with the cooperation of the Selangor State Veterinary Services Department,” he added.

Amirudin expressed hope that any polemics over the issue would cease. He urged that it not be prolonged by any party to maintain harmony among Selangor’s multi-racial community.

Sultan Sharafuddin had previously stated he had not granted permission for pig farming in any district in Selangor. He cited the risk of pollution adversely affecting surrounding communities.

His Royal Highness was of the view that pig farming could lead to air pollution from foul odours. It could also contaminate river water sources due to the discharge of animal waste.

 The Sun Malaysia