Malaysia’s Kelantan-based 1st locally-bred wagyu is in the works — say hello to Kelgyu!

Sick of seeing wagyu slapped onto everything — from burgers to pizzas — with price tags that make your wallet cry? Well, there’s some exciting news cooking for Malaysians. Kelantan’s state government is working on raising its own cheaper version of wagyu beef, and they’re calling it Kelgyu.

So, what exactly is wagyu? The word simply means “Japanese cow” — wa means Japan, and gyu means cow. But wagyu beef is no ordinary meat. It’s famous for being super tender and juicy, thanks to the beautiful fat marbling that runs through it. 

This gives it a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth taste that’s hard to beat. The secret behind this special beef lies in the breed of cows, how they’re raised, and what they’re fed. In Japan, farmers even keep track of each cow’s family tree to make sure the quality stays top-notch.

Because of all that care and effort, wagyu beef is usually very expensive. These days, wagyu is also being raised in places like Australia, which helps bring the price down a bit. And now, Malaysia is joining the game. 

As part of a 2024 government programme to improve food security and make better use of land, Kelantan is starting a local wagyu project — and that’s where Kelgyu comes in. The name combines “Kelantan” and “wagyu.”

Datuk Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail, the Kelantan State Executive Councillor for Agriculture and related industries, explained that this project is a team effort. It involves the Kelantan state government, Kelfarm Sdn Bhd, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), and the Kelantan Veterinary Department (JPVNK).

They’ve even opened a 5th branch for the project, which includes special holding pens and high-tech breeding methods like artificial insemination and embryo planting.

It’s exciting to think that soon, we might be enjoying top-quality wagyu beef that’s proudly made in Malaysia. Go Kelgyu!

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