KOTA BHARU - The Kelantan campus of Univesiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is conducting the state's pilot project using barn owls as a form of effective biological pest control to curb the infestation of rats.
USM Board of Governors chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin, said studies nationwide have shown the method to be highly effective in controlling rat populations in agricultural areas and the outskirts of cities.
"In line with these studies, the Usains and Barn Owl Research Center@USM collaboration at this Health Campus will function as a hub for the breeding of barn owls.
"This programme aims to provide services to curb the rat population on campus and neighbouring paddy fields along Sungai Kemasin in Bachok," he said.
He was speaking to reporters after launching the Usains Barn Owl Research Center@USM Kubang Kerian and the name change of Usains Healthcare, on its 25th anniversary in the industry, here today.
Awang Adek said the project will support environmentally friendly agricultural practices and also help farmers to minimise crop loss caused by rats eating harvested produce and paddy in the fields.
"In particular, this hub can fulfill the objective of sustainable development, namely, no poverty; zero hunger; access to quality healthcare; suitable employment and economic development; preserving the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems as well as discharging Usains' corporate social responsibility towards the Kubang Kerian community.
"The implementation of the project based on the principles of sustainable environment, social benefit, and ethical management will certainly have a positive, holistic impact," he said. - BERNAMA