“Wagyu, but make it Malaysian” — Kelantan to Embark on a Project to Create Locally Bred Wagyu Called ‘Kelgyu’

In case you didn’t know, Wagyu refers to four specific breeds of Japanese cattle. Known for its exceptional marbling and rich flavour, it’s no wonder this cut of meat is considered one of the most expensive and luxurious in the world.

These days, you can find more affordable alternatives to the original Japanese Wagyu, such as those bred in Australia. But now, it seems Malaysia might be the next country to introduce its very own locally bred Wagyu.

As part of the 2024 Food Security Strengthening Programme, which focuses on land optimisation, Kelantan is launching a new initiative to breed local Wagyu cattle. The locally bred Wagyu is called ‘Kelgyu’, a name derived from a combination of Kelantan and Wagyu.

Image Credit: Ust Hj Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail | Facebook

Kelantan’s State Executive Councillor for Agriculture, Agri-Food Industry and Commodities, Datuk Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail, stated that the project is a collaboration between Kelfarm Sdn Bhd, the Kelantan state government, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), and the Kelantan State Department of Veterinary Services (JPVNK).

In the comments section of a TikTok video, Saripudin shared that they have now opened their fifth branch, featuring new holding pens equipped with artificial insemination and embryo seeding technology.

Netizens reactions

On Facebook, many Malaysians voiced their support for the project, expressing hope that Malaysia could become the next country to export locally bred Wagyu.

Image Credit: Ust Hj Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail | Facebook

Watch the video below:

@uts_official Projek ini merupakan salah satu dari projek dibawah Program Pengukuhan Keterjaminan Makanan Tahun 2024 : Mengoptimumkan Penggunaan Tanah dengan Kerjasama Kerajaan Negeri Kelantan dan Kementerian Pertanian dan Keterjaminan Makanan serta keterlibatan strategik antara Jabatan Perkhidmatan Veterinar Negeri Kelantan (JPVNK) dan KelFarm Sdn. Bhd. #PenghayatanMembangunBersamaIslam #gerakanpertanianalfalah #bertanidatuibadah #wagyukelantan ♬ original sound - CAPYXOFFICIAL

Featured Image Credit: @uts_official | TikTok, Ust Hj Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail | Facebook