KUCHING – Demand for Wagyu cattle for korban (animal sacrificial rites) continues to rise year by year, even though the price per animal can reach up to RM15,000, as more well-off individuals opt for this premium breed to be distributed to the poor, asnaf (underprivileged individuals) and mualaf (Muslim converts) in rural Sarawak.
Cahaya Muqarrobin Resources Sdn Bhd (CMRSB) co-owner Nasruddin Mohamad said the trend reflects a shift in public mindset – not only in fulfilling the religious obligation of korban, but also in considering the quality of meat received by beneficiaries.
He said that Wagyu, known for its high marbling texture, has become the choice for customers who want to provide premium-quality meat to recipients.
“For this year, all Wagyu cattle have been fully booked, with about seven heads in total. Customers entrust us entirely with the distribution process to ensure the korban reaches the intended recipients.
“Some customers even requested us to manage distributions to converts in remote areas such as Suai and Miri, including Penan settlements that require journeys of more than 700 kilometres by boat,” he told Sinar.
Nasruddin added that Yayasan Zawiyah is among this year’s clients, having placed orders for korban distribution to asnaf communities outside Kuching.
He said the price for one portion of Wagyu ranges from RM1,000 to RM1,500, while a whole animal is priced between RM7,500 and RM15,000 depending on the breed and weight.