Sabah DAP is concerned about rumours that pork is getting more expensive in the state because there are lesser pigs being slaughtered now, reports Daily Express of Malaysia.

Its Publicity Secretary cum Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Bureau Chief, Dr Edwin Bosi, said he checked with pork sellers at the markets here and Penampang who confirmed to him that they are still following the price as recommended by the livestock association.

However, he said the pork sellers are concerned about reduced supplies.

Dr Bosi said he contacted an officer of the Department of Veterinary Services and Animal Industries Sabah who confirmed that fewer pigs are being slaughtered in Sabah as many small pig farms are closing down. Among the reasons was because of the more stringent rules and regulations on pig farming activities in the State.

He said: "But it is rather coincidental that the reduction in pig slaughter is during the festive season. Many feel there is an element of deliberate action on the part of the farmers to reduce supply so that the price will increase."

Dr Bosi said Sabah DAP wants the Government and department concerned to ensure the price of pork will not be increased during this festive season and thereafter.

He said: "We feel the department should have prepared the small-time pig farmers for the change in pig husbandry. One of the options is to have a centralised pig farming hub complete with waste and effluent disposal system. So we want to know when the centralised pig farming hub project proposed to be established in Telipok or Telupid will be ready."

Daily Express concludes that Dr Bosi hopes this project will soon materialise.