KUALA LUMPUR: SaiKris TechDairies Sdn Bhd, a dairy enterprise, plans to establish the region’s first high-tech robotic dairy farm by the end of this year, propelling Malaysia to the forefront of dairy farming technology.
Its founder and managing director Nash Viknesh said the company aims to launch a joint venture with Koperasi Pembangunan Masyarakat SaiKris Bhd (Koperasi SaiKris) to build and operate the dairy farm.
In a statement on Sunday, he said Koperasi SaiKris seeks to actively participate in safeguarding this long-term investment by raising funds from its members.
He added the 26.305-hectare high-tech dairy farm in Gua Tempurung, Perak, would house 1,000 cows milked by precision robots, with a shift towards automation that would ensure hygienic milk production and contribute to a more sustainable dairy ecosystem.
“SaiKris TechDairies is embracing a phased approach with a total investment of RM66 million. Phase 1 will commence with 250 cows, expanding to 750 cows in Phase 2.
“This project builds upon five years of extensive research and development, with a total investment exceeding RM8 million,” said Nash.
He said the land in Perak has been cleared, and pre-construction plans have been finalised.
Germany-based GEA, a leading provider of robotic and automated machinery with a proven track record in Europe and North America, would equip the farm, he added.
Nash also said that the company has secured a long-term agreement with a multinational corporation, guaranteeing a stable market for its fresh milk.
Inspired by the success stories of Vietnam and Thailand, which boast a self-sufficiency level exceeding 70 per cent, he said SaiKris TechDairies aims to replicate these successes and bolster Malaysia’s food security.
“Driven by a commitment to reducing reliance on imported dairy products and providing Malaysians with consistent access to fresh, locally-produced milk and dairy products, SaiKris TechDairies embarked on this transformative venture.
“This ground-breaking initiative would not only position Malaysia as the regional hub for cutting-edge dairy farming but will also help propel the nation to become a leader in sustainable dairy farming practices,” said Nash.
He added this project aligns with the government’s goal of reducing reliance on imports and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. – BERNAMA
