CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow has urged pig farmers to come forward and be transparent with the Penang Veterinary Services Department (JPV) on the disposal of culled pigs that were infected by the African swine fever (ASF).
He said it was important for the farmers to practise transparency to curb the further spread of the virus, as well as to ensure the compensation package for the farmers that was previously announced by the JPV progresses smoothly.
“This is important because as of yesterday (Jan 23), another three farms were found to be hit by the ASF virus, totalling 21 infected farms in Penang.
“As of now, about 4,000 pigs have been culled; and in the coming days, the relevant department will continue its efforts to cull more pigs found to be infected.
“It is hoped that the farmers will be transparent with their information,” Chow told reporters during a brief press conference at his Chinese New Year open house at Setia SPICE Arena on Jan 23.
Based on state JPV census data, there are 124 pig farms in Penang.
Sixty-four farms are in the north Seberang Perai district, 52 in the south Seberang Perai district, four in the central Seberang Perai district and four on the island.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi and Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis