Liang Kee Farming – Free Range Eggs

Established in 1977, Liang Kee Farming has long relied on the conventional caged system for producing laying hens. Over the decades, the business—managed by Tan Leng Yee, a third-generation member of a farming family—has evolved through experience and innovation. “Long before obtaining formal certification, we had already begun experimenting with the free-range system as part of our commitment to animal welfare. With solid experience and under the supervision of a dedicated veterinarian, we took a bold step forward and successfully obtained Certified Humane® (HFAC) certification in 2019. We are proud to be the first and only free-range certified egg producer not only in Malaysia but in the entire Southeast Asia region—an achievement that marks a significant milestone in our journey and leadership in the field of animal welfare”, says Tan.

Part of the farm’s production which yields around 500,000 eggs per day, located in Kampar city, in the state of Perak, Malaysia, started transitioning to the free-range system. These hens are raised freely with daily access to an open outdoor area for at least six hours a day, weather permitting.

The pilot production at Liang Kee complies with all rules for cage-free farming and also ensures that the hens have access to the outdoors. The minimum outdoor space required by Certified Humane® for free-range egg production is five birds per square meter.

Healthier and Happier Hens

“I initially started experimenting with the free-range system for educational purposes and personal consumption. Students, chefs, and schools visit our farm, and I notice that their feedback is very positive regarding the free-range system,” explains Tan. He also observes that people comment that the eggs are tastier and that the hens seem healthier and happier in this farming model.

Like many producers, Tan discovered the Certified Humane® label through research on nutrient-enriched eggs. He always wanted to differentiate his production from traditional methods. That’s when he realized he needed to invest in quality, instead of quantity. “We farmers see so many chemicals, antibiotics, and growth hormones being used to increase production at the lowest cost. I always educate my children and family to avoid these types of products. On my farm, we use the best foods and ingredients for the animals,” he says.

Liang Kee Farming Values Animal Welfare

Tan Leng Yee believes in the importance of animal welfare for his operation. “Like anything else, if you treat the animals well, they will treat you well too,” he says. To him, investing in animal welfare results in better quality food, preserves the environment, and reduces the need for medication. It’s a chain reaction. With all of this, the product gains more value, and the producer can demand a higher price for their products. Everyone benefits.

On the farm, employees receive proper training, and Tan makes sure they are happy with their work. “This is the best ingredient for raising animals with welfare. Happy workers have happier attitudes… and the result is happier chickens.”

Behind the scenes, the farm’s operations benefit from strong technical leadership and meticulous planning. A dedicated and experienced veterinarian oversees every aspect of production, ensuring animal health and welfare are prioritized at every stage. This level of oversight enhances both the consistency and credibility of our eggs in the market. Our leadership team, with hands-on expertise in sustainable farming, remains deeply involved in every decision, reinforcing our belief that responsibility starts at the top.

Animal welfare production at Liang Kee Farming is still small, but it has great growth potential. “I am happy to receive the Certified Humane® seal. The organization is aligned with my company’s philosophy in that we both want our animals to be well cared for in order to achieve higher production with better yields. I am confident that, without a doubt, the eggs from my farm stand out among others,” concludes the farmer.

Looking Ahead: A New Milestone in Free-Range Commitment

By next year, Liang Kee Farming will welcome another 100,000 hens into our growing free-range family. While many in the industry are only now beginning to build cage-free systems—a commendable move—we are proud to say that we’ve already gone several steps beyond. Liang Kee is the only farm in Malaysia currently operating a full-scale commercial free-range egg production system, where hens enjoy not just cage-free conditions, but also meaningful access to open spaces, natural sunlight, and rich foraging environments.

“This clear distinction sets us apart from standard cage-free models. Our commitment ensures that hens can express natural behaviors like scratching, pecking, dust-bathing, and outdoor roaming—attributes that define true free-range farming. This isn’t just farming—it’s our way of honoring the life and dignity of every bird, while staying well ahead of industry standards.”

“Every egg you purchase from us is a reflection of this deeper commitment. It tells a story of happy hens roaming outdoors, cared for by passionate farmers who believe in doing things the right way, not just the easy way. By choosing our eggs, you’re not just feeding your family—you’re supporting a movement for better animal welfare, healthier food, and a more compassionate world.”

“As an official statement of our mission, Liang Kee Farming reaffirms its unwavering commitment to sustainable and green farming practices. We believe that through mindful stewardship of our animals and land, we can contribute to a healthier planet and a more ethical food system for future generations”, says the farmer.