GEMAS: Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd (F&NHB) has marked a major milestone in its agricultural expansion strategy with the arrival of its first commercial batch of 2,500 dairy heifers from Chile at its state-of-the-art dairy farm in Gemas, Negeri Sembilan. This follows a successful trial batch and coincides with a recent visit from the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan to F&N AgriValley on 11 April.
“This represents a historic moment not just for F&NHB, but also for Malaysia’s dairy industry as a whole,” said Lim Yew Hoe, CEO of F&NHB. “It is the largest single importation of breeding cattle in Malaysian history and marks the country’s first-ever cattle import from Chile. These heifers lay the foundation for Malaysia’s future in sustainable, large-scale dairy farming.”
The imported Chilean Holstein cattle underwent 100% genomic testing, with Genomic Total Performance Index (GTPI) scores that match the performance benchmarks of cattle originally intended for import from the United States.
The journey from Santiago to Malaysia was a carefully coordinated effort involving a dedicated livestock carrier. Throughout the voyage, the cattle were overseen by experienced livestock handlers who monitored their health, nutrition, and comfort. The vessel was equipped with enhanced ventilation systems and maintained a steady supply of feed and water to ensure the animals’ well-being during transit.
“The safe arrival and transport of these cattle are a testament to the efforts of our cross-functional team and key partners,” said Dr Yap Peng Kang, Managing Director of Agriculture and Dairy Farming at F&NHB. “We are especially grateful to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Royal Malaysian Police, Johor Port Berhad, and all relevant authorities at Pasir Gudang for their critical support in facilitating a seamless transition from port to farm.”
The Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) played a key role in upholding Malaysia’s biosecurity standards through rigorous certification and disease prevention protocols. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) ensured full compliance with import regulations, safeguarding animal health throughout the process.
The heifers are now undergoing a mandatory quarantine at F&N AgriValley, which hosts Malaysia’s largest on-site quarantine facility for a single livestock batch. These animals are housed in technologically advanced barns equipped with intelligent environmental control systems designed to optimise comfort and health.
“This initiative reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s food security and developing a robust domestic dairy industry,” Dr Yap added.
