By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 27: The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) has reported new cases of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in the State, a highly infectious viral illness that affects cattle and buffaloes, characterised by the development of nodules on the skin and other related symptoms.
Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, said a series of control measures has been swiftly implemented, including treatment of infected animals, vaccination programmes, movement restrictions, and surveillance of livestock populations—particularly in areas near the Indonesian border.
He warned that the threat of emerging pests and diseases remains a serious concern, stressing the importance of continued vigilance against any potential biosecurity risks.
“With the rise of new pests and diseases in recent years, biosecurity plays a critical role in safeguarding our agricultural resources,” he told the august House during his ministerial winding-up speech today.
To strengthen these efforts, Dr Rundi revealed that his ministry is in the process of establishing the Sarawak Quarantine and Inspection Services (SQS) that would enhance the State’s biosecurity capacity and improve oversight of the movement of goods and people across borders.
In addition to LSD, Dr Rundi highlighted several other biosecurity threats. Among them is the Red Palm Weevil (RPW), a destructive pest targeting coconut trees that has already caused significant damage nationwide.
“However, through the biosecurity measures taken by the Department of Agriculture Sarawak—including import controls, entry-point inspections, and ongoing monitoring—we’ve managed to keep the RPW at bay. These efforts also help prevent the spread of the Cadang-cadang Viroid Disease (CCVD), another major threat to our palm industries,” he said.
However, he cautioned that the sago worm industry’s use of RPW larvae as a food source could unintentionally contribute to the pest’s spread.
Another key concern is the Fall Armyworm (FAW), a rapidly spreading pest that poses a risk to maize, rice, and even the young shoots of oil palm. Dr Rundi confirmed that FAW has been detected throughout Sarawak.
He also flagged the Bacterial Panicle Blight (BPB) as a threat to rice crops, particularly during the flowering and grain-filling stages. To mitigate its impact, the Department of Agriculture Sarawak conducts Verification of Compliance (VOC) inspections on imported rice seeds. So far, three hybrid rice seed imports have undergone VOC procedures.
Dr Rundi also noted that Sarawak remains free from Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)—a significant advantage that provides greater market access for the state’s livestock and animal products.
“Leveraging on this status, Sarawak will also have a bigger potential to develop breeder stock for export through biotechnology, such as embryo transfer and sexed semen for genetic improvement,” he added.
He reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to proactive pest and disease management.
“Sarawak is determined to stay ahead of biosecurity threats. The establishment of SQS will further bolster our capabilities to protect agricultural industries and natural resources for future generations. But achieving this requires strong community cooperation, sufficient manpower, and sustained effort,” he stressed. — DayakDaily
