KUCHING: The demand for livestock such as cattle and goats for the upcoming Aidiladha sacrificial rites is on the rise, even though the available supply this year is lower than in previous years.
Owner of Ternak Maju Al-Barakah farm, Syed Razuan Ali, 47, said his farm has prepared 122 cattle and more than 300 goats for this year’s sacrificial season.
“For livestock purchases, the stock is somewhat reduced, but the number of customers is increasing,” he said when met recently.
According to him, the cattle are raised on their own farm, while the goats are supplied by breeders under the Ternak Maju Al-Barakah company.
The breeds offered include Bahaman and dairy-type cattle, while the goats are of Barbados, Kajang, and Janapari breeds, all suitable for both korban (sacrifice) and akikah (religious animal offerings).
Market prices have also gone up compared to last year, with cattle now priced between RM8,000 and RM14,000 each, and goats between RM1,500 and RM3,000 each.
“For us, we prioritise male goats and male cattle, which are more suitable for akikah and sacrifice,” Syed Razuan added.
Although the current stock of 122 cattle has been fully booked, Syed Razuan expects a new batch of 22 cattle to arrive soon to meet customer demand.
He also highlighted that one of the main challenges is sourcing suitable high-quality goat breeds like Barbados and crossbreeds that can thrive in Sarawak’s climate and conditions.
Nevertheless, the health and well-being of the animals are closely monitored, with regular visits from veterinary officers.
The farm also employs modern technology such as artificial insemination with imported breeds like Belgian Blue, Charolais, and Simmental through this process which is conducted at a specialised facility elsewhere.
He said the company is strongly focused on involving youth in livestock farming as a long-term strategy to ensure the sustainability of the industry.
“Today, goat and cattle farming is largely inherited by retirees. That’s why we focus on getting young people involved.
“My own son, who is now 18, will eventually take over and continue this business,” he said.
The farm also provides training to individuals interested in livestock farming, including military retirees and civil servants.
The company has a network of young farmers from Kuching to Sibu who receive breeding stock and basic livestock training through the company’s support.
Syed Razuan himself started the business in 2003 with small-scale efforts while still working as a fashion designer in Kuala Lumpur and Kuching.
After recognising the potential in livestock farming, he shifted to full-time farming.
Now, after 22 years, his farm has grown and employs five workers who manage and feed the livestock three times a day.
The farm also provides internship opportunities for university students, such as those from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).
He advised young people not to underestimate the potential of the livestock industry, saying that it has low competition and can be very profitable if approached with seriousness.
However, high initial costs and fear of financial loss from animal deaths are among the factors that deter many from joining the sector.
“Next year, we’ll offer starter packages for those interested in goat farming. We’ll teach and supply breeding stock.
“They can learn the business first, and once they’re confident, they can go independent,” he said.
Besides livestock, the company also sells fresh meat, goat’s milk, and pre-marinated goat meat products all produced by young entrepreneurs under the company’s umbrella.
Syed Razuan remains optimistic about the future of the livestock industry in Malaysia, as long as there is sustained effort and early exposure.
“The potential to grow is definitely there. But if people aren’t interested or aren’t exposed to it early, it won’t go far,” he said.
