Sarawak urged to tighten entry-point checks amid Nipah virus outbreak in India

KUCHING (Jan 30): Sarawak authorities have been urged to stay vigilant following the recent Nipah virus outbreak in India, with precautionary measures recommended at entry points into the state, said Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said that while the situation has not reached a critical stage, it is important for Sarawak to closely monitor developments, particularly as the state is a key entry point for travellers.

“The Nipah virus cases in India are concentrated in Assam, in northeastern India, and there are also cases reported in other South Asian countries, including Thailand.

“Visitors arriving from India are being monitored, including their body temperature, to prevent the virus from spreading,” he told a press conference after his courtesy visit from Youth and Sports Department director general Azura Abidin at his office

Abdul Karim noted that the Nipah virus is of particular concern due to its high fatality rate, which is higher than that of the coronavirus, and the lack of a vaccine.

“It was first detected in Malaysia some time ago.

“In my view, the State Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government and the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) should take appropriate precautionary measures,” he said.

He also highlighted the potential risks as Malaysia prepares for its “Visit Malaysia Year,” stressing that authorities must ensure incoming visitors do not inadvertently bring the virus into the state.

“Even visitors from areas where the Nipah virus has been detected should be monitored.

“However, this is my personal view, I do not have the authority to enforce restrictions — that is up to the relevant ministries and leaders to decide on the procedures to control entry points,” he said.