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MALACCA: Swiftlet breeders operating within the historic city’s World Heritage Site heritage zones will know by the end of March if they will be allowed to stay put or have to move out.
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Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said new guidelines on swiftlet breeding would be tabled before the Cabinet later this month and the approved guidelines enforced once they are gazetted by March.
The state government had previously not allowed the breeders to operate within the heritage zones and they were given until Dec 31 to move.
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However, he noted the state still reserved the right to refer the matter to Unesco’s Committee on World Heritage Site, if swiftlet breeding would have a negative impact on structures within the heritage zones.
“If they say okay, then we will allow it. If not, we will follow their advice,” he said before chairing the state exco meeting yesterday.
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He added the state would also heed protests by residents who live near houses used to breed the birds.
There are some 100 swiftlet breeders registered with the Malacca Birds Nest Merchants Association, with 17 operating in the heritage zones..
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Meanwhile, Malacca Heritage Trust vice president Michael Benerji said swiftlet breeding should not be allowed in the heritage zones.
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“Their presence is not conducive to the old structures that are used as birdhouses,” he said, adding the breeders must look for alternative sites.
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However, he added that the authorities must assist the affected breeders to encourage them to relocate.
(from Star papers )
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