KUCHING: Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has dismissed claims that it had released a statement instructing unlicensed bird’s nest operators to suspend their operations.
On the contrary, SFC said it has been actively advising operators to apply for the necessary licences, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance, 1998 and promoting the sustainable management of the bird’s nest industry.
“It is important to note that a licensed operator is covered by the law, and SFC encourages all operators to obtain the required licences to operate legally,” SFC said in a statement posted on its social media yesterday (May 16).
It stressed that it has never issued any notice or directive instructing unlicensed swiftlet farmers to suspend their operations.
“Recent reports of suspects being detained are associated with individuals purchasing from illegal sources. Currently, this case is still under investigation,” it said.
To demonstrate SFC’s commitment to regulating the industry, a total of 491 licences have been issued to date.
“However, through our ground survey, there are more than 800 unlicensed operators. SFC is taking appropriate measures to address these cases together with the Bird’s Nest Associations.”
SFC, it said, is firmly against such illegal activities which impact the bird’s nest industry.
SFC said throughout 2021 and 2022, it had engaged in multiple dialogues with bird’s nest operators, the Bird’s Nest Associations and the public in various locations, including Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, Miri and Saratok.
“The objective of these dialogues was to provide guidance on licensing requirements for swiftlet farms and promote adherence to SFC guidelines. Local YBs, chairpersons of the Bird’s Nest Associations, and representatives of relevant government agencies were present during these dialogues.
“The bird’s nest operators participated actively in these dialogues, familiarising themselves with the applicable rules and regulations, and requirements for the application of various licences,” it said.
SFC also stressed that during the dialogues, SFC and the Bird’s Nest Associations agreed to work together to achieve mutual understanding on noise pollution, health and diseases and economic issues related to the industry.
“SFC strongly encourages all bird’s nest operators to join the Bird’s Nest Associations. By becoming members of the associations, operators gain access to the latest updates in regulations for the industry.
“The associations serve as a platform for operators to channel their concerns, complaints, and suggestions, ensuring effective communication between the industry and SFC,” it said.
