We Brought Home First Prize for Rhode Island Red! 🏆🐓 #KPPU2025

On 10 May 2025, Grove Homestead proudly participated in the Karnival Pameran & Pertandingan Unggas (KPPU 2025) — organized by the Malaysia Ornamental Poultry Association (M.O.P.A.) — and held at Dewan Utama ADTEC, Shah Alam. The event was a vibrant celebration of Malaysia’s growing appreciation for heritage and ornamental poultry, bringing together breeders, homesteaders, and families from across the country. For us, it became a defining moment in our journey as we proudly represented our flock and our values on a national stage.

The exhibition hall was filled with excitement and anticipation as exhibitors prepared their birds for judging. Rows of beautifully raised chickens stood ready — each one representing hours of effort, care, and selective breeding. Among the highlights were majestic Brahmas, charming Silkies, and the iconic Rhode Island Reds. These breeds, known for their unique traits and dependable performance, set the tone for a showcase rooted in purpose and passion.

Amid this vibrant lineup, Grove Homestead’s Rhode Island Red rooster stood out — earning First Prize in his category and bringing home a coveted trophy. It was a proud moment for our team, not just as recognition of a single bird, but as affirmation of our entire approach to poultry: slow, ethical, and focused on quality over quantity.

Behind this win lies a deeper story. Our Rhode Island Red rooster comes from carefully selected lines known for their strength, calm temperament, and ability to thrive in Malaysia’s tropical climate. From hatching to maturity, he was raised with a routine we trust — a mix of clean living spaces, quality feed, and natural support when needed. We regularly use vitamins like Multivix during key growth stages, especially in our breeding stock, to support overall health and keep their condition strong without overdoing anything. His posture, feather quality, and calm confidence didn’t happen overnight — they’re the result of small, consistent efforts done right.

The judging panel — composed of experienced poultry experts — evaluated each bird based on specific breed standards. This included feather condition, structure, body mass, behaviour, and overall vitality. Our rooster was praised for his well-balanced frame, uniform deep mahogany feathers, firm stance, and a clean, upright comb (balung) — all hallmarks of a healthy, well-bred bird. These qualities are not just valuable in a show — they are indicators of a strong, reliable breeding bird.

Winning this award is more than a feather in our cap. It’s validation of our mission to raise chickens that are more than ornamental — birds that perform, endure, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable food systems. In an era of industrial farming, heritage breeds like the Rhode Island Red remind us that slower, purpose-driven farming still matters.

The Rhode Island Red has always held a central place at Grove Homestead. Developed over a century ago, this breed is prized globally for its dual-purpose nature — consistent egg production and excellent meat quality. What makes it truly special in the Malaysian context is its hardiness. Our birds are bred specifically to handle the local heat and humidity without compromising health or productivity.

During the event, we had the opportunity to meet fellow breeders and enthusiasts who share our vision — preserving and promoting heritage breeds through responsible, small-scale farming. It was inspiring to hear how others are navigating the same path: working with limited space, weathering rising costs, but still committed to quality breeding and education.

While petting was not allowed for biosecurity reasons, the public’s curiosity was clear. Visitors stopped to observe, ask questions, and learn. Many were surprised by the size and stature of the Rhode Island Red rooster, often saying they had only seen smaller breeds. These conversations revealed a growing awareness — and a hunger for knowledge about sustainable poultry keeping.

This event reminded us that people aren’t just looking for chickens. They’re looking for connection — to food, to nature, and to something real. At Grove Homestead, we believe chickens are more than livestock. They’re part of a lifestyle that values patience, resilience, and respect for the land. Each flock started in a backyard is a step toward local food security and intentional living.

Taking home the trophy was a humbling experience, but also a call to keep going. We want to be more than breeders — we aim to be educators, collaborators, and leaders in Malaysia’s heritage poultry space. This win gives us the momentum to continue refining our breeding lines and empowering others to raise chickens with purpose and pride.

We are deeply thankful to M.O.P.A., the event organizers, the dedicated panel of judges, and every visitor who took the time to engage with us. The Karnival Pameran & Pertandingan Unggas was more than a competition — it was a platform for learning, connection, and community. We’re proud to be part of this growing movement and grateful for the opportunity to showcase what intentional, small-scale breeding can achieve.

If you’re thinking about starting your own flock, there’s no better place to begin than with the Rhode Island Red. Hardy, productive, and stunning to look at — they are an ideal choice for anyone serious about chickens. You may message us directly to learn how to bring this award-winning breed into your backyard.

Thank you for the opportunity and memories. Til next time.. :)