A total of 45,967 shotgun licences for individuals, companies, and agencies have been registered throughout Sarawak to date.
Minister in the Premier’s Department, Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said as such, it is important to keep a systematic regulation of shotguns and ammunition to ensure public safety and order.
“The management of shotguns and ammunition is governed under the Firearms Act 1960 and the Executive Authority (Shotguns) Order for Sabah and Sarawak, 1977.
“According to current administrative directives, the ownership of shotguns by individuals in Sarawak is permitted solely for the purpose of protecting crops and livestock from pest animals, and not for hunting activities,” he said.
He said this in his ministerial winding up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting in Kuching today.
Additionally, Sikie said that the Sarawak Government is currently developing the e-Firearm system to better regulate and manage shotgun licence applications in a more organised, efficient, and effective manner.
On the inheritance of shotguns, he acknowledged its significance as part of Dayak ancestral heritage, particularly for those responsible for the family’s main room in longhouses.
“Such inheritance is strictly limited to transfers from parent to son or daughter only, to ensure accountability and maintain safety control in line with current state policy.
“For shotgun owners who do not have a son or daughter, the firearm must be surrendered to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for disposal.
“Regarding the proposal to reopen applications for the Carry and Use Permit for firearms and ammunition to prevent inheritance disputes, the Sarawak Government currently has no plans to reopen such applications for individuals.
“Carry and Use Permits are only considered for security companies, government agencies, or departments, based on safety and control considerations,” he said.
