MALACCA, MALAYSIA: Some 20 pig farmers from Kuala Sungai Baru have come forward to express gratitude to the MCA for its efforts in resolving their plight.

The farmers, who were among those affected by the controversial pig culling operations last year, organised a thanksgiving dinner following settlement of their claims.

Kesidang state seat incumbent MCA candidate Datuk Koh Nai Kwong and Malacca MCA secretary Datuk Seah Kwi Tong were guests at the dinner.

Koh said the MCA had stood by the affected farmers and had not shied away from the issue as alleged by the Opposition.

"We did not shy away from our responsibilities. Instead, we tried our level best to solve the problem," he said.

Last Sept 4, the Malacca government was embroiled in a controversial pig culling operation to reduce the number of pigs from 150,000 to 48,000, citing illegality of the farms and environmental concerns.

The culling was called off after a tense standoff with enforcement officers.

In subsequent negotiations, 20 pig farmers agreed to close their farms.

The farmers, from Kampung Manlok, Bukit Bumbun, Kampung Londang and Bukit Beruang, received RM21mil (S$9mil) in compensation.