Nipah biomass eyed for commercial livestock feed

THE Sarawak Government is strengthening the development of an integrated animal feed ecosystem involving SEDC Nutreco, Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) and i-CATS University College.

Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the initiative focuses on utilising locally available raw materials, expanding commercial feed production, advancing research and innovation, and adopting circular bioeconomy approaches to reduce reliance on conventional feed ingredients.

He said that the key initiatives include SEDC Nutreco’s production of 485 metric tonnes of animal feed using Palm KernelvExpeller (PKE), SALCRA’s development of Napier grass cultivation and a Smart Insect Farm, and i-CATS University College’s research into sustainable feed formulations and alternative protein sources.

SEDC, he said, through its subsidiary, is producing affordable cattle feed using locally available raw materials, particularly PKE.

“Feeding trials have recorded an average daily weight gain of approximately 1.2 kilogrammes, demonstrating the potential of locally formulated feed to support cattle growth and productivity.

“SALCRA has also commenced the commercial sale of PKE under its SalGrow brand following the commencement of operations and certification of its Kernel Crushing Plant in May 2026.

“As of August 2026, SALCRA had sold 360 metric tonnes of PKE, valued at approximately RM250,000,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.

Meanwhile, he said that construction of the Smart Insect Farm by SALCRA, which is intended to produce alternative protein sources for animal feed formulation, is progressing, with physical progress currently at 36 per cent.

Moving forward, Dr Rundi said SEDC will focus on expanding production capacity, improving feed formulations and broadening its customer base.

“SALCRA will continue to develop oil palm-based feed ingredients and alternative protein sources to support a more sustainable and commercially viable local feed industry,” he said.