KOTA KINABALU – The state government plans to intensify investments in the research and development (R&D) of the swiftlet bird nest industry.
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan in a statement today said expanding existing economies, such as supporting the swiftlet bird nest industry, will be one of the ways to replace lost jobs due to the pandemic situation in the state.
“The government has a plan to set up a Sabah swiftlet board this year to regulate the industry.
“It will be responsible in carrying out R&D on swiftlet bird nest products in Sabah, to add value to it.
“It is one of the ways to resuscitate the local economy. Too many people have lost their jobs, or had their wages cut in half.”
Kitingan said the proposed board’s R&D department will need a huge investment from the government, adding that it is necessary for the survival and growth of the industry.
“We cannot depend only on our raw materials. We need to add value to it. One kilogramme of good quality swiftlet bird nest could fetch up to RM5,000.
“But adding value to it by processing the raw product will give operators RM15,000 or more per kilogramme.
“Downstream activities also create more high-paying jobs for our people, regardless of age or gender. This is what we want for the people of Sabah.”
Kitingan, who is also state agriculture and fisheries minister, said Sabah government will be working closely with the private sector, especially experienced industry players, to build processing plants in the state.
“In terms of the market, we need to expand our horizon and not just focus on one market, like China. My wish is to make Sabah’s swiftlet bird nest an international brand.” – The Vibes, January 30, 2021
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