Sarawak: The Sarawak state government is intensifying efforts to curb the spread of rabies through the implementation of comprehensive and phased dog vaccination programmes across the state, involving multi-agency collaboration.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom stated that the state is targeting to vaccinate approximately 45,567 owned dogs as part of a comprehensive rabies control and dog population management strategy. This approach also includes licensing, microchipping, subsidised neutering, and public awareness campaigns.
The programmes are set to include mass dog vaccination campaigns, targeted spot vaccination, as well as house-to-house and village-to-village vaccination activities. These efforts are conducted by divisional veterinary offices, Immune Belt Enforcement Teams (IBET), and private veterinary clinics.
The initiatives are being carried out by the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) with the cooperation of the Ministry of Health (MOH), local councils under the state's Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG), IBET, Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), and private veterinary clinics, as explained by Rundi.
These efforts align with the Anti-Rabies Vaccination Order under Section 40(1) of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance, 1999, mandating rabies vaccination for all dogs in Sarawak, including those in previously infected and non-infected areas. Rundi emphasized that this directive remains in force until officially revoked. Enforcement teams from DVSS and local councils will ensure compliance with the vaccination programmes and responsible pet ownership, as required under the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance, 1999, and the Local Authorities (Dog Licensing and Control) By-Laws, 2018.
Rabies was first detected in Sarawak in mid-2017, leading to several divisions being declared infected areas. This prompted the state to implement movement control measures, mass vaccination programmes, and the establishment of IBET along state and international borders. As of December 2025, Sarawak has recorded a cumulative total of 89 human rabies cases since the outbreak was declared nine years ago.
Rundi advised dog owners to ensure their pets are appropriately vaccinated and comply with all directives issued by the authorities. He noted that collective responsibility remains critical to safeguarding public health and preventing a resurgence of rabies in Sarawak.