SMC urged to intensify stray dog operations in Sibu amid rabies threat

SIBU (Nov 28): Stanley Chiew, the private secretary to Lanang MP Alice Lau, has called on the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) to address the growing issue of stray dogs with greater urgency, particularly in residential and commercial areas, to safeguard public safety.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Chiew revealed he had received complaints from businesses at Medan Commercial Centre on Lorong 5, Jalan Wong King Huo here, where more than 10 stray dogs have been frequently seen roaming around the shoplots.

He highlighted the particular risk this poses to children, noting the presence of several eateries and a large tuition centre in the area.

“Many students attend classes or wait for their parents there. The consequences of a dog bite could be severe,” Chiew said.

He cited a similar problem at Jalan Bukit Assek, where strays are often seen scavenging through garbage.

Despite numerous public complaints, the issue persists.

Chiew stressed the ongoing threat of rabies in Sarawak, which has claimed many lives in recent years, reminding the public that any dog bite can be life threatening if immediate medical attention is not sought.

While urging the council to improve its efficiency in handling stray dogs, Chiew called on the public to remain vigilant and also for pet owners to act responsibly.

“This protects not only others but also yourselves and your families,” he said.

In a separate session during a full council meeting on Wednesday, SMC chairman Clarence Ting disclosed that the council had already removed 936 stray dogs from the streets within its jurisdiction as of the end of October.

Ting affirmed the council’s commitment to public safety, pledging to continue deploying enforcement teams to capture strays that pose a threat.