SAMARAHAN – Sarawak faces a critical shortage of veterinary professionals, with only 98 registered veterinarians serving the state—far below the national standard. Of these, just 20 operate private veterinary clinics, while others work in feed mills, farms, and pharmaceutical industries. Experts estimate Sarawak needs an additional 500 veterinarians and 500 para-veterinarians to meet demand.
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In response to this gap, PM Veterinary Clinic has opened a new branch in Samarahan, marking its second location after its 2021 launch in MJC, Kuching. The clinic, founded by Dr. Kelvin Chai and led in Samarahan by Dr. Kong Sin Lin, aims to improve animal healthcare accessibility while supporting public health and disease prevention.
The expansion highlights the growing role of private veterinary services in Sarawak, which now offer advanced facilities such as diagnostic imaging, treatment, and minor surgical procedures. The clinic’s team emphasized their commitment to animal welfare, community education, and safer living environments for humans and pets.
Meanwhile, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Sarawak is set to enrol its first batch of 50 veterinary science students in October 2026, a step toward addressing the workforce deficit.
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Dr. Chai and Dr. Kong were commended for their entrepreneurial vision and contribution to Sarawak’s development, proving veterinary medicine is a “blue ocean” opportunity in the region.
The opening was also joined by Sarawak Deputy Premier, Minister of Public Health, Housing & Local Gov Dr. Sim Kui Hian.
