Pahang Uses Italian Expertise to Develop Its Dairy Buffalo Industry

The Pahang state government is pursuing cooperation with Italian companies as part of efforts to strengthen its dairy buffalo industry, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail. The initiative was discussed during a working visit to Rota Guido SRL in Cremona, Italy.

Wan Rosdy said the visit was intended to provide a closer look at the technology, management systems and operating practices used in Italy’s dairy buffalo sector. The areas examined included farm layouts, livestock housing, animal welfare, feeding, waste handling, milking equipment, and systems for managing and cooling milk.

The Pahang delegation also considered how Italian methods could be adjusted to local conditions. This included the state’s climate and operational requirements, as well as livestock management, technical services and veterinary support. Wan Rosdy said the proposed approach would address breed quality, genetics, technology and modern management alongside the number of animals.

On Sept 23, AGK Dairy Fresh Sdn Bhd and Rota Guido SRL signed a memorandum of understanding. The agreement covers the acquisition and breeding of Italian Mediterranean dairy buffaloes at Bukit Kajang in Raub, Pahang, and technical cooperation for livestock operations.

Wan Rosdy said the introduction of selected buffaloes from Italy would require technical and veterinary cooperation and compliance with relevant export requirements. The cooperation is also intended to support higher livestock productivity and quality, increased milk production and new economic opportunities for local industry participants.

He said Pahang’s livestock-sector development would focus not only on increasing the number of animals but also on raising the industry’s overall value, productivity and competitiveness.