Happenings
Malaysian Delegation Visits Europe to Explore Innovative Farming Solutions with Big Dutchman
Date : December 7, 2024 | Location: Vechta, Germany
A distinguished delegation of Malaysian government officials, industry leaders, and animal welfare advocates recently concluded a four-day visit to Vectha, Germany hosted by Big Dutchman, the global leader in poultry and livestock farming technology. The visit, held from December 2 to December 6, 2024, was organized by Humane Society International (HSI) as part of their ongoing efforts to drive Malaysia towards sustainable and ethical egg production.
This initiative aimed to provide key stakeholders with firsthand exposure to advanced farming practices, sustainable technologies, and welfare-friendly systems. By collaborating with global leaders in agriculture, HSI seeks to accelerate Malaysia’s transition toward cage-free systems and support corporate and industry commitments to meet global animal welfare standards.
Humane Society International (HSI) is actively advancing the implementation of cage-free egg production across Malaysia in partnership with corporations committed to meeting global standards by 2025. In addition to facilitating this Europe visit, HSI has announced plans to conduct a workshop and roundtable meeting with all corporations that have pledged cage-free commitments.
The workshop, scheduled for early 2025, will focus on evaluating the achievements and challenges faced by corporations in their transition to cage-free systems, providing tailored strategies and solutions for large-scale implementation and uniting stakeholders to develop a cohesive plan that aligns with Malaysia’s goal of becoming a fully cage-free nation.
Dr. Sara Shields, Director of Farm Animal Welfare Science at HSI USA, explained the initiative:
“HSI is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation to drive Malaysia towards becoming the leading cage-free nation in this region. The workshop and roundtable discussions will provide a platform for corporations to strengthen their strategies, share progress, and ensure timely execution of their commitments.”
This workshop is part of HSI’s larger agenda to establish Malaysia as a model cage-free nation in this part of the world, setting an example for other countries to follow.
HSI is working closely with producers and corporations, including TC Poultry Farm, Liang Kee Farming, QL Resources, LTK, Huat Lai, Keris Aryan, and smallholders, who are transitioning to cage-free systems. To facilitate this process, HSI is also developing Malaysia’s national standards for cage-free production, including guidelines for Cage-Free Pullet Rearing and Cage-Free Aviary and Free-Range Production Standards
Dr. Saravanakumar S. Pillai, Senior Advisor ,Farm Animal Welfare , Policy and Egagement at HSI Malaysia, remarked:
“These standard are critical for ensuring consistency and best practices in cage-free systems. They will support producers in successfully transitioning to welfare-friendly and sustainable production methods while contributing to Malaysia’s leadership in ethical farming.”
Dr. Mohd Hishammfariz bin Mohd Amin, Principal Deputy Director and former Head of the Federal Poultry Unit at the Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia (DVS) along with Dr. Shamizah bt Omar Hisham of DVS participated in the delegation and highlighted the importance of this initiative for Malaysia’s agricultural future.
Dr. Mohd Hishammfariz remarked:
“This visit has provided us with invaluable insights into the future of poultry farming. The advanced systems demonstrated by Big Dutchman exemplify how technology and animal welfare can work hand-in-hand to create a sustainable and productive agricultural sector. As Malaysia transitions to cage-free systems, these innovations will play a crucial role in shaping a model that prioritizes both ethical practices and food security. The Department of Veterinary Services supports these efforts and is committed to working with industry stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition.”
Dr. Mohd Hishammfariz’s and Dr Shamizah’s participation further underscored the Malaysian government’s dedication to supporting the adoption of innovative and welfare-friendly farming solutions in collaboration with industry and global leaders like Big Dutchman.
Mrs. Rebecca Tan Ai Sim, Quality Assurance Assistant Manager at QL Resources, highlighted the importance of technological innovation in scaling operations:
“The visit was eye-opening. Big Dutchman’s systems provide practical and sustainable solutions that align with QL Resources’ goal to enhance food security in Malaysia. These innovations will be transformative for our industry.”
Mr. Meor Ezree Syazrin Bin Meor Abdul Ghani, Treasurer of the Malaysia Cage Free Egg Producer’s Organisation, reflected on the opportunity to advance welfare-focused farming:
“As a representative of cage-free egg producers, I see this visit as a game-changer for our industry. The solutions we explored align perfectly with our mission to ensure high standards of animal welfare while maintaining operational efficiency. It’s inspiring to see how European models can be adapted to Malaysia’s unique context.”
Mr. Muhammad Zulfadli Bin Zahir, CEO of Varsity Agro, emphasized the importance of sustainable practices:
“This visit provided valuable insights into integrating sustainability with technology. At Varsity Agro, we are committed to driving innovation that not only increases productivity but also minimizes environmental impact. The technologies showcased by Big Dutchman reaffirm our commitment to building a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector in Malaysia.”
The visit yielded several tangible outcomes, signaling significant progress in Malaysia’s transition to modern and welfare-friendly farming practices with QL Resources committed to converting an empty caged barn at Lian Foo Farm, Melaka, into a research and development farm for cage-free egg production with an initial capacity of 10,000 hens. Liang Kee Farming Adopts Free-Range Systems:
Liang Kee Farming announced plans to establish a 20,000-hen free-range aviary barn, reflecting their commitment to animal welfare and sustainable production practices. Varsity Agro Collaborates with FELDA Settlers: Varsity Agro will launch a cage-free egg production program in collaboration with FELDA settlers, fostering community engagement and contributing to sustainable rural development and the Malaysia Cage Free Egg Producers Organization (MCFEPO) will focus on developing mobile turnkey units designed to house 1,000 hens, aimed at supporting government-related agencies working on poverty eradication programs
HSI’s ongoing efforts to assist corporate entities with 2025 cage-free commitments are supported by close collaborations with major producers, including TC Poultry Farm, Liang Kee Farming , QL Resources, LTK, Huat Lai, Keris Aryan, and smallholders.
Big Dutchman provided in-depth tours of their state-of-the-art farming systems, showcasing advanced ventilation technologies, welfare-friendly housing, and precision farming solutions. The visit underscored their commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture in Malaysia.
Mr. Peter Long, Area Sales Manager at Big Dutchman Malaysia, expressed his enthusiasm:
“We are honored to host this esteemed delegation and contribute to Malaysia’s journey toward agricultural excellence. At Big Dutchman, we believe in solutions that promote productivity, sustainability, and animal welfare. This visit is a testament to our shared vision for a more sustainable future.”
Mr. Alexander Neumann, Business Development – Project Coordinator at Big Dutchman, emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to Malaysia:
“Big Dutchman sees Malaysia as a key market for driving innovations in livestock and poultry farming. We are thrilled to support local producers as they transition to sustainable, welfare-friendly practices. Our goal is to be a partner in progress, providing tools and solutions that benefit the entire ecosystem—from producers to consumers.”
The Malaysia Cage-Free Egg Producers’ Organisation extends its heartfelt congratulations to HSI and all participants involved in the recent visit. We applaud your efforts and commitment to advancing animal welfare. Together, we are inspired to move forward and accelerate progress toward a cage-free agenda in Malaysia. Let us continue to collaborate and work towards a future that prioritizes ethical and sustainable egg production.