S’wak to micro-chip local dogs to differentiate those from neighbouring country to curb rabies

Abang Johari (seated center) speaking during the press conference while Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian (second right), director of Sarawak's Security and Enforcement Unit Dr Chai Khin Chung (second left), together with Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn (left) and Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah (right) and the others look on.

By Christopher Lidom

KUCHING, Sept 26: In view of long borders, Sarawak will micro-chip all local dogs to differentiate them from foreign dogs in an attempt to curb rabies spread.

Referring to dogs that come over from the neighbouring country, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak government is also cooperating with the local communities to identify the origins of rabies dogs.

ā€œSarawak has over 1,000 kilometer of border, foreign dogs are freel to roam into the State.

“They do not have passport. So what we do is micro-chipped the local dogs for tracking purpose,ā€ he told a press conference after launching Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) Ceremony held at Celebration Square in Petra Jaya, today.

He pointed out that a professional approach also has to be taken in the process to catch the dog whereĀ professional parties such as the Veterinary Department needed to confirm whether dogs from across the border are carriers of rabies.

He advised all not to take things for granted although rabies situation in Sarawak are under control, stressing thatĀ rabies is a serious matter because contracting the disease can lead to a loss of life.Ā ā€“ DayakDaily.