“Two weeks ago, I went with the director and officers of the Veterinary Services Department to three locations to source livestock. 

“In addition to the 780 beef cattle from Darwin, we also purchased 395 dairy cattle and 800 Boer goats from Melbourne,” he said in a statement today.

Jamawi said a total of RM10 million had been allocated annually for the purchase of the cattle, with the programme focusing on famers who own oil palm plantations to help them generate additional income.

He said the female cattle supplied were also between six and seven months pregnant, enabling farmers to  obtain calves within two to three months of receiving the livestock.

“So far, some farmers have continued have used local cattle breeds passed down through five to 10 generations. Sometimes, they have to wait years for a calf to be born.

“By using breeds with better productivity, we hope to increase the farmers’ income,” he said.

He said 20 farmers had been identified to receive beef cattle under the programme, with each allocated between five and 10 head of cattle, depending on their needs.

Meanwhile, Jamawi said the state government had introduced a requirement this year, making it compulsory for recipients of livestock assistance to pay a security deposit or bond, to ensure the cattle are properly cared for and not sold within three years.

He also encouraged individuals keen on venturing into the beef cattle, dairy cattle or goat farming industries to contact the Veterinary Services Department in their respective district for guidance and to attend relevant courses. 

“The department will guide them on how to become successful farmers. The most important thing is for them to acquire the necessary knowledge and attend courses offered at designated training centres throughout the state,” he added.

-- BERNAMA