Possible to rear wild Bali cattle

SERIAN: A delegation of 10 officers from Terengganu Veterinary Department on a study tour discovered that it’s possible to rear the wild Bali cattle.

Terengganu veterinarian delegation leader Dzulkafli Hamzah said they had heard that Bali cattle could be set free to roam in the wild, not enclosed in farms.

“Some plantation operators in Terengganu had tried to rear Bali cattle as part of integrated farming, but most of them failed.

“The planters would release the cattle on their plantations and allow them to graze and roam freely. As Bali cattle are wild they would forage for food in the jungle and not return,” he said.

He said this was the experience of those trying to rear Bali cattle on oil palm plantations as part of integrated farming.

“After witnessing the successful breeding of Bali cattle in Sarawak, we look forward to learn more to introduce them here,” he said.

Dzulkafli said this when leading the delegation to visit Serian Bali cattle farm owned by Councillor Sunny Kon here yesterday. They were accompanied by a few State Agriculture Department officers and veterinarians.

A senior member of the delegation from Terengganu Shamsudin Mamat said this was the first time he saw such a huge herd of Bali cattle being reared like cows.

“It’s amazing that Bali cattle can be reared like tame species. They don’t seem as wild as we thought,” he said.

He said the government should encourage more people to venture into Bali cattle breeding and rearing, with a ready model available.

“I’m sure councillor Sunny (Kon) is more than willing to share his experience with those serious about running the business,” he said.

He said the meat of Bali cattle was softer than normal cows – similar to deer, some claim.

The delegation comprising mostly retiring officers was brought to Kon’s farm for an educational visit.

“We hope to learn about Bali cattle breeding and rearing. And if time permits, return with some calves to Terengganu,” Samsudin said in jest.

On their arrival at the farm yesterday the delegation was briefed by Samarahan assistant veterinary officer (AVO) Parag Kaweh.

Those attending the briefing included state veterinarian Dr Nicholas Jenek, Serian district senior assistant agriculture officer (SAAO) Tedwin Beti, Kon and a few local businessmen.

Read more: http://www.theborneopost.com/2015/10/21/possible-to-rear-wild-bali-cattle/#ixzz3p9ixfsFG