KUALA LUMPUR – In a significant stride towards boosting Malaysia’s dairy industry, Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd has successfully received its first large-scale commercial batch of 2,500 dairy heifers from Chile at its F&N AgriValley facility in Gemas. This historic import follows the recent trial arrival of heifers and a formal visit from the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar on 11 April.
Describing the moment as a turning point for local dairy farming, F&NHB Chief Executive Officer Lim Yew Hoe stated, “This is not only the largest single import of breeding cattle into Malaysia but also marks the country’s first-ever cattle import from Chile. It lays the foundation for Malaysia’s long-term dairy sustainability.”
The imported Holstein cattle from Chile were genomically tested to ensure top-tier breeding quality. “Each heifer meets high performance standards, with a Genomic Total Performance Index comparable to U.S.-sourced cattle originally intended for the project,” Lim added.
The animals made the transcontinental journey from Santiago aboard a specialised livestock carrier, with round-the-clock care from expert handlers. Dr Yap Peng Kang, Managing Director of Agriculture and Dairy Farming at F&NHB, highlighted the importance of animal welfare during the voyage: “The vessel was fully equipped with proper ventilation, food, and water, ensuring the cattle’s comfort and well-being throughout the journey.”
After docking at Pasir Gudang port, the heifers were transported safely to F&N AgriValley within three days. Dr Yap credited the smooth import process to the efforts of multiple key agencies. “We’re deeply grateful to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Royal Malaysian Police, Johor Port Berhad, and all involved authorities for their excellent coordination,” he said.
The Department of Veterinary Services enforced stringent health certification and disease prevention protocols, while the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services ensured full regulatory compliance—both critical to protecting the country’s livestock industry.
Upon arrival at their new home, the cattle entered a quarantine period in Malaysia’s largest on-site livestock quarantine facility, located within F&N AgriValley. The cattle are being housed in technologically advanced barns featuring intelligent climate control systems to ensure comfort and health.
Dr Yap concluded, “With this successful import, we reaffirm our commitment to raising biosecurity and animal welfare standards, while taking bold steps toward achieving national food security in the dairy sector.”