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KUCHING (Jan 22) – Pet owners in Sarawak must now vaccinate their dogs against rabies as part of a new regulation enforced under Section 40(1) of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999 (VPHO 1999). This includes annual booster shots, according to Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
“Dog owners who fail to comply with this regulation risk being fined up to RM2,500. Furthermore, unvaccinated dogs exposed to rabies will be euthanised,” said Dr Rundi in a statement following the signing of the new order.
Rabies-Infected Zones in Sarawak
Dr Rundi revealed that seven divisions, namely Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Kapit, Mukah, and Bintulu, have been declared rabies-infected zones. This follows the discovery of 123 rabies-positive cases from 889 animal samples collected in 2024, with the highest cases reported in Kuching (79).
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Between January 6 and 19, three rabies cases involving cats and dogs were detected in Kuching and Samarahan. These positive animals were free-roaming pets, highlighting the importance of pet containment and vaccination.
Protecting Pets and Public Health
Dr Rundi reminded the public to exercise caution when handling stray animals and to seek immediate medical attention if bitten. Pet owners are urged to vaccinate, neuter, and microchip their dogs to comply with local council licensing requirements. Failure to obtain a dog licence may lead to fines of up to RM5,000.
The minister also emphasized responsible pet ownership, noting that abandoning pets or allowing them to roam freely is punishable by fines under the VPHO 1999.
Free Vaccination Programs
To combat the rabies outbreak, the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) and the Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) have launched intensified vaccination programs statewide. Free anti-rabies vaccinations are available at government veterinary offices and during mass vaccination drives, as announced on the official DVS Sarawak Facebook page. Private clinics also provide vaccination services.
By ensuring all pet dogs are vaccinated, Sarawak aims to protect both animals and residents from this deadly disease.