KUCHING: Rabies-control efforts in Sarawak are progressing with vaccination enforcement but field operations are still being carried out in stages.
Food Industry, Commodities, and Regional Development Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, said this is because the Sarawak Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) currently has only 84 staff compared to the total requirement of 566 personnel to expand operations across the state.
He said with the existing workforce, field operations are still being carried out in stages, especially in high-risk areas.
“We will continue to strengthen ongoing efforts, including operations to capture stray dogs and vaccination programmes, despite certain constraints,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after observing the oral rabies vaccine (ORV) administration process for stray dogs around the Taman Malihah Multipurpose Hall, Jalan Matang, here today (April 15).
Dr Rundi added that efforts to curb rabies also require sufficient financial support to ensure all initiatives can be implemented more effectively.
In this regard, he also said the need for additional funding will be brought forward for government consideration, including in the upcoming budget presentation in November.
“We will review this need comprehensively and discuss it with the Sarawak Government to ensure rabies control efforts can be strengthened,” he said.
He also stressed that preventive approaches will continue to be prioritised to ensure rabies transmission can be controlled at an early stage.
Dr Rundi added continued government commitment and support from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are crucial to ensure the programme remains effective and does not escalate into a crisis.
“Don’t wait until we reach State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) level of response. That is a disaster already.
“Of course it is more stable today than before. So therefore I think we should put a very high expectation, zero rabies. Now I cannot say 2026 anymore, but 2027 and onwards,” he added.
He said that rabies is no longer confined to dogs, with cats also posing growing risks, making public awareness even more important.
“When a cat scratches, it doesn’t mean you can just take it for granted,” he said.
He described rabies as a serious public health threat and a “matter of life and death” due to its almost irreversible outcome once symptoms appear.
Dr Rundi also revealed that Sarawak recorded three rabies-related deaths this year, compared to six last year, reflecting improvement but highlighting the need for continued vigilance and coordinated efforts across all agencies and communities.
