Gigantic cattle bring influx of orders to breeder ahead of Raya Haji

As Hari Raya Aidiladha approaches, a “lembu sado” (gigantic cattle) breeder in Kampung Pasir Hor in Kota Bharu will receive an influx of orders from customers from all over the place.

Continuing his father’s legacy as a cattle breeder for the past 23 years, Armizan Harun, 46, said so far, he had sold five gigantic cows to buyers in Selangor for the Aidiladha sacrificial rites on June 7.

He said that five of his 13 cattle are of the Limousin, Charolais, Blonde d’Aquitaine, Belgian Blue, and Brahman breeds, weighing over 800kg per head, with prices ranging from RM17,000 to RM18,000 each.

“Having more meat and a more tender taste are among the special qualities of these cattle compared to regular ones, making them a preferred choice,” he told the reporter at his farm recently.

The father of six said he decided to focus on breeding these large cattle because of the high prices they command.

“Initially, I had only five cows that I purchased from the villagers, and I carried out the artificial insemination process to ensure a continuous supply of cattle.

“We use semen from Limousin, Charolais, Blonde d’Aquitaine, Belgian Blue, and Brahman breeds purchased from the Kelantan Veterinary Department. This process is usually carried out by my eldest son, Arfan Raqfin, 23, who possesses the necessary skills,” he said.

Increased demand

Armizan said the cattle will be vaccinated monthly to ensure they remain healthy and free from diseases, including contagious illnesses like foot and mouth disease, stressing that he only sells these premium cattle to buyers with proper enclosures to keep the animals and are registered with the Veterinary Department to prevent the disease from spreading.

He said he also supplies local cattle for sacrificial rites, adding that he has sold 300 local cattle, priced between RM3,500 and RM4,800, nationwide.

“I expect sales of local cattle to reach at least 500 heads before Hari Raya Aidiladha. Usually, the price includes delivery costs.

“I also hope that the Veterinary Department will ease the permit process for cattle farmers during this period, as Muslims will be performing the sacrificial rites soon, leading to increased demand for cattle,” he added.

According to Armizan, obtaining permits for cattle delivery used to take only about a week, but since last year, it has extended to at least 21 days, as the livestock must first receive FMD P1 and P2 vaccinations before being dispatched to customers.

- Bernama

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