KUALA LUMUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has suggested that the modern pig farm project in Bukit Tagar be cancelled for now due to serious concerns raised by residents of various communities in the area.
Speaking to the press after Friday prayers at Surau Al-Amin in Bandar Baru Bangi, Anwar emphasised that he would meet with Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari to reassess the project, local media reported.
“I will discuss with the Menteri Besar to get his view on whether we could cancel the project for now and consider a more suitable location, provided the technology is guaranteed,” said Anwar.
He further explained that although the project involved modern technology, it should not proceed if it poses a risk to the community or the environment.
The controversy surrounding the Selangor pig farm has drawn attention due to environmental concerns, relocation plans, and political sensitivities.
The state government is in the process of closing traditional pig farms in Kuala Langat, including Tanjung Sepat, due to pollution, while critics warn against framing the issue in racial or religious terms.
Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has recently mandated the relocation of pig farming operations to a modern, centralised facility in Bukit Tagar.
Anwar stressed the importance of selecting the right location for such projects, in line with advice from Sultan Sharafuddin and the welfare of the people. He also acknowledged that the issue had been discussed in a Cabinet meeting earlier that morning.
“The environment, the concerns of the people, and the various ethnic groups in the area must be seriously considered,” Anwar added.
Last Saturday, Amirudin confirmed that the state government had not yet identified an alternative location to replace Bukit Tagar for the relocation of the pig farms.
However, he assured that the state government remained open to discussions with all parties involved to ensure the transition to a more orderly and comprehensive farming system.
The Selangor state government had previously decided to fast-track the relocation of pig farms from Kuala Langat and Sepang to the Bukit Tagar site, spanning 500 acres, by the end of the year. This move aims to address pollution issues and promote environmental sustainability. – January 23, 2025