BY ASYRAF HALIM
KUCHING: The number of dog bites in Sarawak has shown no decline since rabies was first detected in 2017, with nearly half of recent cases now linked to household pets.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said this situation is very worrying as the public continue to face the risk of rabies infection despite various measures taken by the government.
“If we look at the statistics since 2017, the number of dog bites has not changed much.
“The difference now is that almost half of the cases come from pet dogs or cats, not stray dogs,” he said when met by reporters after the launch of World Rabies Day & Rabies Awareness Fun Run 2025 at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Community Hall here today.
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, stressed that there is no difference in terms of risk between stray animals and pets as both can be infected with rabies.
“Many assume that only stray dogs have rabies. That is wrong.
“Pet dogs or cats can also carry the virus, and even scratches from an exposed cat can be dangerous,” he said.
He added that the complacency of some pet owners who fail to carry out annual vaccinations has also contributed to the situation.
“Many think one vaccine for life is enough. In fact, rabies vaccination must be done every year.
“If owners are negligent, they are not only endangering themselves but also their families and neighbours,” he added.
He also informed that two human deaths from rabies have been reported in Sarawak so far this year, reminding everyone of how serious the threat is.
“Two people have died this year due to rabies.
“We do not want Sarawak to continue being known as the only state in the world still struggling with this outbreak,” he said.
According to Dr Sim, various initiatives are being actively implemented, including free vaccination campaigns held every month in different areas in collaboration with local authorities.
“There is no excuse not to vaccinate pets as vaccination campaigns are available every month and free of charge.
“Failure to do so can result in fines of up to RM3,500,” he stressed.
