Anti-Rabies Vaccination Order: Sarawak dog owners reminded to vaccinate pets

KUCHING (March 6): Dog owners across Sarawak are reminded that rabies vaccination for all dogs is mandatory under a government order issued through the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999 under the Anti-Rabies Vaccination Order.

The Sarawak Department of Veterinary Services (DVSS) issued a public reminder on its Facebook page, urging owners to comply with the vaccination requirement as part of efforts to curb the spread of rabies.

The department highlighted that rabies is a fatal disease that can infect both animals and humans, but it is preventable through regular vaccination of dogs.

Failure to comply may result in enforcement action, including fines, while also posing a serious public health risk.

Dog owners are advised to ensure their pets receive annual rabies vaccinations, maintain proper vaccination records, and keep dogs under control.

DVSS also called on the public to support the state’s rabies elimination efforts by vaccinating dogs and protecting families and communities.

The vaccination requirement is outlined in the Anti-Rabies Vaccination Order, published in the Sarawak Government Gazette on Feb 2, 2026.

Approved on Jan 20 under Section 40(1) of the ordinance, the order mandates that all dogs in Sarawak, including those in both rabies-infected and non-affected areas, receive anti-rabies vaccination.

The order will remain in force until officially revoked.