KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) has assured that supplies of chicken and ruminant meat will remain sufficient to meet demand during the 2026 Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season.
Based on the department’s projection for the first five months of 2026, local production of chicken is estimated to reach 29,916.65 metric tonnes, while ruminant meat – including beef and buffalo – is projected at 3,185 metric tonnes.
Its director, Dr Zul Bahar Abdul Rashid said as a proactive measure to meet increased festive demand for whole chicken, the department allowed the importation of whole chickens as early as December 2025 to ensure adequate and stable supply in the market.
Commenting on a seizure of frozen animal-based products at a warehouse in Penampang on March 3, he clarified that no confiscation was made involving the 542,519.16kg of products under the Animal Enactment 2015 as all the items were found to have valid import licences.
The department said it will continue monitoring supply and demand to ensure food supply stability and the sustainability of the livestock industry in Sabah. – Wu Vuide
Pic for illustration purpose only.
