NEW STRAITS TIMES, MALAYSIA
MOHD HAIZUL HO DFor the Secretary-General, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Putrajaya
THE Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) appreciates the concern over the health issues surrounding swiftlet hotels that were highlighted by T.C. Ti of Bentong ("A health hazard not many are aware of" -- NST, Sept 9).
The edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is protected under the Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 [Act 76].
It is widely distributed in Southeast Asia and is commonly mistaken for swallows.
The swiftlet is slightly smaller in size; free-flying, perching only at its nest and nowhere else.
This is one of the species which is known to have commercial value throughout the world.
The DWNP would like to clarify that the operation of bird houses is under the jurisdiction of local councils. However, the DWNP issues the harvesting, business and import/export licence.
The swiftlet is not a carrier of the bird flu disease, confirmed from the sampling conducted by the relevant agency.
Bird house operators practise cleanliness and systematic harvesting. If not properly managed or harvested, the swiftlets would not return to the bird house.
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