Agriculture Ministry Encourages Young Malaysians To Venture Into Rabbit Meat Farming
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries said rabbit meat could be an alternative to beef and mutton.
By May Vin Ang — 02 Nov 2020, 04:56 PM
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries is encouraging young entrepreneurs to venture into rabbit meat production
According to Bernama, Deputy Minister II Datuk Che Abdullah Mat Nawi said the industry has great potential as demand for rabbit meat has been rising and could be an alternative to beef and mutton.
"There are advantages in rabbit breeding, including a short production cycle, lower operating cost, and fast, lucrative returns," he told reporters after a seminar on the potential of rabbit meat production at an agro resort in Terengganu on Saturday, 31 October.
He added that the current rabbit population in Malaysia is estimated to be 33,701, including broilers and pets
“Average rabbit meat production is almost 1,000kg per month and the selling price is about RM35 per kg," he said.
Rabbits usually weigh between 1kg to 1.6kg each and can be slaughtered after 60 to 90 days.
Terengganu Veterinary Services Department (JPV) director Dr Mohd Termizi Ghazali said rabbit meat-based products such as burgers, marinated and grilled rabbit meat, and rabbit satay are always in high demand.
The JPV director also said the department will continue to support the state governments' efforts in developing the industry
The department said it will carry on with the implementation of more advisory service programmes and courses on livestock production.
"So far, we have helped three aspiring farmers through the Young Agropreneur Scheme by providing equipment, infrastructure, and livestock feed amounting to RM60,000," he said.
"JPV also provides assistance to rabbit breeders and is planning to build a rabbit slaughterhouse with halal status in the Kuala Nerus district."
