KUCHING: Rabies in Borneo 2025 (RIB), scheduled to take place from Sept 30 to Oct 1, is expected to gather global and regional experts in efforts to strengthen the mission to eradicate rabies.
Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVS) director Datuk Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said the conference, themed “Rabies Free Borneo: Uniting People, Animals and Communities”, will feature plenary sessions and panel forums highlighting the fight against rabies in Sarawak.
“This programme also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation as well as the latest innovations in rabies prevention and control.
“We collaborate, vaccinate, and educate the public, especially in Sarawak.”
Dr Adrian said this during a press conference for the upcoming the 23rd World Veterinary Poultry Association Congress (WVPAC 2025) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Monday (Sept 8).
He noted that the rabies situation in Sarawak remains under control, but there have already been two human deaths this year, including the most recent case in Bintulu, underscoring the importance of public awareness.
“Therefore, we continue to remind the community to ensure that their pets are vaccinated, not to let dogs roam freely, and to practise responsible pet ownership by caring for them, vaccinating them, and sterilising them if possible.”
He added that early registration fees start at RM500, standard RM680, and RM180 for students. The conference will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In addition, he announced that the Rabies Awareness Fun Run 2025 will also be held on Sept 20 at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Community Hall starting at 6.30am, with free participation.
Meanwhile, Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom stressed that public awareness and action are crucial in curbing rabies.
“After being bitten, some take it lightly and just ignore it. But the virus eventually attacks the brain and cannot be cured.
“Therefore, you must protect dogs through vaccination, and most importantly, when bitten, you must know the immediate steps to take. This is very critical.”
