KUCHING: As of March 2025, the State Health Department reported that the cumulative total of human rabies cases in Sarawak stands at 83, with 76 fatalities since 2017.
Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said so far, there have been no reported rabies-related deaths this year.
“I would like to remind the public to take extra precautions and seek immediate medical attention at any nearby clinic if bitten by an animal,” he advised in a statement.
To manage the dog population, he called for dog owners to be responsible and to apply for a license and microchip from their respective local councils.
“Failure to obtain a dog license is an offence and may be fined up to RM5,000 under section 3 by the local councils.
“Pet owners are encouraged to neuter their pets at any private veterinary clinic to prevent disease and increase the number of unvaccinated pets.
“Those who dumped their pet can be fined up to RM2,000 under section 73, VPHO 1999,” he said.
He mentioned that dog owners must keep their dogs under effective control by confining it within an enclosed area from which it is impossible for the dog to escape.
“Owners who let their dogs roam freely on the streets shall be liable to a fine not exceeding RM5,000 under Section 37, VPHO 1999 and or RM2,000 under section 12 (Dog Licensing and Control) by-laws, 2018.
“Local councils may seize and impound any free roaming dogs. Dogs suspected with rabies and exposed to rabies with no vaccination record will be euthanized for laboratory test,” said Dr Rundi.
