Ministry assures livestock supply surpasses demand for sacrificial rituals during Aidiladha

PUTRAJAYA, May 25 — The supply of livestock for this year’s Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration is sufficient to meet nationwide demand, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM) said in a statement today.

Data from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) as of April showed that local cattle and buffalo stock stood at 35,127 heads, while imported supply totalled 16,845 heads.

“This brings the overall supply of cattle and buffalo for sacrificial purposes to 51,972 heads, surpassing the estimated requirement of 40,420 heads for mosques, surau and slaughterhouses nationwide,” the ministry said.

For goats and sheep, KPKM said local stock amounted to 25,815 heads, with imported supply recorded at 4,232 heads, bringing the total to 30,047 heads compared with the projected demand of 22,424 heads.

Based on the projections, the ministry assured that the country’s livestock supply remains adequate to meet demand for sacrificial rituals during Aidiladha this year.

On infrastructure readiness, KPKM said 27 slaughterhouses operated by DVS across Peninsular Malaysia are prepared to facilitate sacrificial slaughter activities.

“In addition, DVS has issued licences to 43 private slaughterhouses throughout Peninsular Malaysia as of March 16 to provide authorised slaughtering services to the public,” the statement said.

The ministry said organisers intending to conduct sacrificial slaughter activities outside designated slaughterhouses, including at mosques, surau, schools, residential areas and public spaces, must obtain an external slaughter permit together with the necessary supporting documents.

KPKM also advised the public to refer to the Guidelines on Livestock Slaughter for Sacrifice issued by DVS to ensure the ritual is carried out smoothly and in accordance with the prescribed standards. — Bernama