SHAH ALAM, July 10 — All cattle and buffaloes in Selangor will be tagged for easy owner identification and legal action in the event of accidents involving wandering livestock.
State executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Izham Hashim said this measure is among three components being considered in the amendment of the Cattle-Buffalo Control Enactment 1971, which is inadequate in addressing the issue.
"The issue of wandering cattle is significant and needs to be resolved. We cannot allow cattle and buffaloes to roam freely, entering supermarkets, hospitals, and roads.
[caption id="attachment_363300" align="alignleft" width="410"]
State executive councillor for public infrastructure and agriculture Izham Hisham responds to queries during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session at the State Secretariat Building in Shah Alam, on July 10, 2024. — Picture by HAFIZ OTHMAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
“Tagging is necessary because there is currently no provision for it. This identification not only helps to identify the owners but can also serve as evidence in court (in case of loss of life due to road accidents),” he said during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session today.
Izham was responding to Jeram state assemblyman Datuk Harrison Hassan's supplementary question on whether the state government will implement tagging for livestock following more than 10 fatal accidents in Jeram, Kuala Selangor, over the past year.
He added that improvements would be made in terms of more orderly licensing conditions, penalties, fees, and designated areas for livestock farming.
If applicants (livestock breeders) do not have specific areas to raise the animals, the state government, via the Veterinary Services Department (JPV), will not issue livestock farming licences.
“All these compliance measures will also be included in the by-laws under local authorities,” Izham said.
Weaknesses in the enactment are being reviewed through draft amendments prepared by JPV to ensure more orderly and effective enforcement.
These amendments are expected to be finalised before December 31 after being approved and reviewed by the State Legal Advisor.
“After that, the state government will conduct briefing and engagement sessions involving stakeholders such as community leaders, livestock breeders, several departments, and government agencies for a six-month moratorium before comprehensive enforcement is implemented statewide.
“After the moratorium, wandering cattle will be captured, and action will be taken against the owners,” he said.
— Bernama
