Expert: Development of the Poultry Industry is Crucial for Food Security

The poultry sector holds an important position as one of the most efficient sources of animal protein and is widely consumed by people around the world. In Padang (ANTARA), Prof Mardiati Zain, an expert and Dean of the Faculty of Animal Husbandry (Faterna) at Universitas Andalas (UNAND) in West Sumatra, stated that the development of the domestic poultry industry plays a crucial role in maintaining national food security and even at the global level in the future. “The poultry sector has an important position as one of the most efficient sources of animal protein and is widely consumed by people around the world,” she said in Padang on Wednesday. However, Prof Mardiati believes that the development of the poultry industry cannot be carried out using old approaches because it requires new methods so that this sector can become a pillar of food security in the country and on a broader scale. The reason is that the world is currently facing an era of climate change, limited natural resources, and ongoing disease threats. The alumna of Bogor Agricultural Institute and UNAND explained that strengthening research in genetics, nutrition, and animal welfare is an important part of creating poultry production. In addition, the utilisation of digital technology such as AI-driven precision farming and modern biotechnology is considered capable of increasing efficiency while minimising production waste. “No less important is policy that supports small-scale farmers, strengthening biosecurity, and creating fair international trade,” she suggested. “We can no longer rely solely on traditional approaches. Collaboration between universities, researchers, industry, and government is needed to create a resilient and sustainable poultry industry,” she said. Finally, UNAND is committed to supporting research, innovation, and international cooperation that not only impacts academic development but also the welfare of society and global sustainability.