PUTRAJAYA: The government is of the view that pig farming activities should not be continued in areas that can cause unease among residents, as they involve issues of odour, cleanliness and public health.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the stance is not based on racial or religious sentiments but aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the affected community.
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He also emphasised that the issue of pig farming is not a racial matter, but one that is related to environmental concerns, cleanliness and odour that affect the community.
"That is why, for me, I do not see this (pig farming) from a racial aspect. In terms of need, yes, Chinese people or non-Muslims consume pork... we must not ban it, that is their right. But if it is in residential areas where most people do not eat pork, including Muslims, that is surely not encouraged,” he said at the Prime Minister's Gathering with National Unity Ministry staff here today.
Anwar said that from the policy standpoint, the government does not oppose the pig-farming industry or prohibit non-Muslims from consuming pork, but pig farms must be located in areas that will not cause any controversy.
"We do not want to force communities opposed to pig farming to allow areas around their homes to be used for rearing such livestock, which could cause the flow of waste,” he said.
He said the government is open to proposals to introduce new technology in the pig farming industry that can ensure cleanliness, though any livestock proposals must be discussed prudently and comprehensively, including taking into consideration aspects of health, the environment and local community acceptance, before making any decisions.
"These matters can be discussed properly. Should they be continued in areas that may cause controversy? My answer is no.
"If there are such projects, find locations that won't cause a controversy, because the problems are real. The odour, health and waste issues are real problems, not made up.
"So, find a place that has consensus. If there isn’t any in Kuala Lumpur, then there isn't. If it's difficult in Selangor, then it's difficult. Don't go looking for problems,” he said.
Anwar said issues like pig farming, which are sensitive, must be addressed through proper discussions and not harshly or with insults.
"We respect the rights of those who consume pork, and they must respect our right to manage suitable areas. That way, there will be peace.
"But if we reject it outright, surely there will be protests… this is something we must avoid,” he said.
Also present at the event were National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
