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KUCHING, Aug 22: The recent surge in rabies cases in Sarawak raises serious concerns about the efficacy of the measures being taken to combat this deadly disease, says special assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, Michael Kong.
“Rabies, a disease that is largely preventable, has inexplicably gained an unsettling foothold within our communities, a consequence directly attributed to the inadequacy of intervention strategies on the part of the government.
“This demands an immediate, all-encompassing effort from the authorities to recognise and address the gravity of this situation,” said Kong in a statement.
He said while rabies is a complex issue that demands the cooperation of various stakeholders, the primary responsibility lies with the government to ensure effective preventive measures are in place.
To him, the failure to control the spread of rabies not only poses a significant threat to public health but also casts a shadow over the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.
“We call upon the Sarawak government to take immediate and decisive action to address this pressing concern. The safety of our communities and the welfare of our animals must be prioritized, and a concerted effort should be made to implement effective preventive measures.
“As responsible citizens, we demand transparency, accountability, and a strong commitment from the Sarawak government to tackle the rabies crisis head-on. It is time for the government to step up, collaborate with experts and stakeholders, and swiftly implement a comprehensive, strategic plan that will conclusively end rabies in Sarawak,” said Kong.
He said in this endeavor, Democratic Action Party (DAP) stands ready to support the authorities in their efforts and are prepared to volunteer their assistance, including partnering with the Veterinary Department to contribute towards achieving the common goal of a rabies-free Sarawak. — DayakDaily