The Sarawak government will roll out the Free Dog Licensing Programme 2026 across all local authorities statewide as part of efforts to strengthen responsible pet ownership, improve public health management and curb the issue of roaming strays.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the initiative involves exempting payments for both new applications and renewal of dog licences for three years to encourage greater public participation.
“This will allow us to monitor pet ownership, reduce roaming strays and address animal-related disease outbreaks with a view to ensuring better public health management,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (May 19).
Dr Sim said the ministry has also implemented several proactive programmes statewide, including mass vaccination, licensing and microchipping programmes across 29 local authorities.
He added that district councils are also carrying out door-to-door licensing initiatives, while open counter services have been introduced in collaboration with programmes such as the Sarawakku Sayang Programme.
“In addition, online application facilities have also been provided to make the process more accessible and convenient for the public,” he said.
On healthcare matters, Dr Sim said the Sarawak Medical Committee (SMC) has been fully functioning since March this year.
He thanked the Malaysian Medical Council for approving the establishment of the SMC in Sarawak, noting that the committee would help address the shortage of doctors in the state.
“We will continue to support SMC and facilitate the registration of medical practitioners to work in Sarawak,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Sim said the ministry is continuing its pursuit for the delegation of selected executive functions under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 from the Ministry of Health (MOH) to the Sarawak Health Department.
He said the move is aimed at enabling the department to oversee the registration of private clinics as well as the licensing of private hospitals and healthcare facilities in Sarawak.
According to him, the delegation is expected to allow faster processing and approval of applications while ensuring compliance with Sarawak laws and regulations.
“This will facilitate the setting up and operation of private healthcare facilities and services in Sarawak,” he added.
