Kuala Lumpur, 30 July 2025 – In a bold move applauded around the world, Sweden has officially become the first country to ensure that all egg-laying hens are raised in cage-free systems starting 2025. This monumental achievement will spare over 17 million hens from life in confinement, setting a powerful global precedent for farm animal welfare and responsible food systems.

Sweden’s success is not only a win for hens, it is a wake-up call for nations, food companies, and consumers to embrace higher animal welfare standards. In Malaysia, where cage-free egg production is steadily gaining traction, this development adds renewed urgency to ongoing national efforts.

“Sweden’s leadership sets a new global benchmark for farm animal welfare,” said Dr. Saravanakumar S. Pillai, Senior Principal, Policy and Engagement for Farm Animal Welfare, and Adviser to the Malaysia Cage-Free Egg Producer Organization (MCFEPO).

“It’s not just about freeing hens from cages, it’s about ending systemic neglect and transforming the way we view animals in our food systems. Malaysia and ASEAN nations must look at Sweden’s success not as a dream, but as a direction.”

In Malaysia, MCFEPO, in collaboration with producers, retailers, and government agencies, is working to support farmers in transitioning to cage-free systems. With increasing support from hypermarkets, hotels, and foodservice companies, Malaysia is poised to become a cage-free leader in Southeast Asia.