Malaysia Marks Historic Dairy Milestone with First Bulk Fresh Milk Export to Singapore
SEREMBAN, March 14 — Malaysia has achieved a major milestone in its agricultural sector as Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd (F&NHB) launched the country’s first export of locally produced bulk fresh milk from F&N AgriValley in Gemas to Singapore.
The shipment marks the first time Malaysia has exported bulk fresh milk produced within the country, highlighting the nation’s growing capability in modern large-scale dairy farming.
The milestone also reflects Malaysia’s broader ambition to strengthen food security by increasing domestic production while expanding opportunities for the local dairy industry in regional markets.
The inaugural export shipment was flagged off by Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak. Also present were Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Noor Hisham Mohd Haron, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) director-general Mohamad Shaffie Hassan, DVS Negeri Sembilan director Dr Nurul Ain Ahmad, and F&N AgriValley director Datuk Raffiq Md Ariff.
Strong Institutional Support
Isham said the milestone reflects the result of close cooperation between government agencies and the private sector in building Malaysia’s dairy farming capabilities.
Since the project began, the ministry and its agencies have provided technical assistance, regulatory guidance and operational support to ensure the project met export standards.
The Department of Veterinary Services played a key role by providing advisory support and ensuring compliance with technical and regulatory requirements for export readiness.
Meanwhile, MAQIS oversaw quarantine procedures, certification requirements and export permits while ensuring proper cattle management practices were implemented.
At the state level, agencies in Negeri Sembilan helped ensure the safe transfer of cattle to F&N AgriValley and supported daily operations including vaccination programmes aimed at maintaining cattle health.
Isham said the achievement demonstrates Malaysia’s growing ability to meet international standards in modern agricultural production.
First Shipment of 40,000 Litres
The first shipment involved two specialised trucks transporting 40,000 litres of 100 per cent fresh milk from Gemas to F&N Foods Pte Ltd (F&NF) in Singapore.
F&NF managing director Siew Peng Yim said the efficient logistics network enables the milk to reach Singapore within a matter of hours.
Once delivered, the milk can be processed and packaged within 24 hours after milking, ensuring optimal freshness and nutritional quality for consumers.
Integrated Dairy Farming Model
F&N AgriValley director Datuk Raffiq Md Ariff said the success reflects the effectiveness of the company’s integrated farming approach.
The farm employs sustainable agricultural practices, including producing high-quality feed for its cattle, which helps maintain consistent milk quality.
Raffiq said the company is committed to supporting Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen food self-sufficiency and eventually become a net exporter of fresh milk.
He added that F&N has already begun exporting dairy products to overseas markets through shipments of Bear Brand Sterilised Milk to Cambodia, which are produced using fresh milk sourced from Gemas and processed at the company’s facility in Pulau Indah.
Modern Dairy Farming Technology
F&N AgriValley incorporates advanced technology to maintain animal welfare and ensure efficient milk production.
The cattle are housed in freestall barns equipped with intelligent environmental control systems that help maintain optimal comfort conditions.
The farm also utilises rotary milk parlours, allowing milk to be extracted through a fully enclosed system that prevents human contact until it reaches the container filling station.
The milk then undergoes multiple quality control checks before export to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements set by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
This milestone is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s dairy sector while opening new opportunities for the country to expand its presence in the regional dairy market.
-wilayah.com.my
