KUCHING: A total of 2,875 dogs have been licensed in Sarawak this year, bringing the cumulative number since 2019 to 27,188.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said while the progress is encouraging, more effort is needed to ensure responsible ownership and control the dog population to build a safer Sarawak.
“Success depends on community support. Citizens must avoid abandoning pets, ensure pets are spayed and neutered and report strays when necessary. Or adopt them properly and sincerely,” he said.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian during the Rabies in Borneo conference opening ceremony at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), here today (Sept 30).
Abang Johari noted that to date, over 278,840 animals have been vaccinated, with 10,957 pets receiving anti-rabies jabs this year alone.
“Rabies cases have decreased from 43 percent in 2018, the peak of the outbreak when it just started, to now just 13 percent this year.”
Meanwhile, Abang Johari also assured that the state government is committed to eliminating rabies, with strategies include the mass vaccination of dogs, microchipping and licensing, as well as targeted removals and surveillance of the disease.
“Moreover, the Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) has been established to ensure at least 70 per cent herd immunity along the border areas, safeguarding against cross-border transmission.
“Rabies is not just a responsibility for the government or health professionals alone. It is a shared responsibility and a true test of the One Health approach. Every citizen, every pet owner, and every community member has a role to play.
“We must remember that even a simple scratch from a contaminated claw can be as dangerous as a bite, and that both dogs and cats are capable of transmitting the virus. To succeed, we must embrace collective responsibility, vigilance and compassion,” he said.
