Penang Veterinary Services Dept Issues 1,398 Slaughter Permits For ‘ibadah Korban’

GEORGE TOWN, May 25 (Bernama) -- The Penang Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) has issued 1,398 outside slaughter permits (PSL) this year to mosques, surau, corporate bodies and sacrificial rites (ibadah korban) organisers across the state in conjunction with Aidiladha.

Its director, Dr Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab, said a total of 6,107 livestock were recorded for sacrificial activities this year, compared with 4,220 in 2025, representing an increase of 1,887 animals or 44.72 per cent.

“As of today, a total of 1,398 PSLs have been issued this year, compared with 1,057 in 2025, an increase of 341 permits or 32.26 per cent, reflecting greater public participation and an increase in ibadah korban activities in Penang this year.

“The breakdown of livestock this year includes 5,476 cattle, 542 goats, 57 sheep, 26 buffaloes and six camels,” she said in a statement today.

She said the strong demand, particularly for cattle, shows that cattle remain the preferred choice for sacrificial rituals, driven by factors such as ease of distribution, participant capacity and current economic conditions.

Saira Banu said the supply of cattle and buffalo for sacrificial rites includes both local and imported livestock, with imports used to stabilise supply and meet higher demand during the Aidiladha season, especially when local production is insufficient to meet current needs.

She said among the factors contributing to the shortage of local livestock supply are rising feed costs, higher farm operating costs, limited grazing areas, a decline in the number of active farmers, and animal diseases that can affect production and livestock productivity.

“The issuance of PSL is important to ensure that sacrificial activities are carried out in line with established procedures and requirements, including veterinary health standards, animal welfare, slaughter hygiene and food safety.

“The permit also helps ensure that livestock used for sacrificial purposes are healthy and fit for slaughter, while monitoring by appointed veterinary officers and meat inspectors ensures that both ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections are properly carried out,” she said.

She also advised all ibadah korban organisers to obtain the PSL and to ensure that livestock handling and slaughter waste management are carried out properly and in accordance with the stipulated requirements.

-- BERNAMA