SIBU – A free rabies vaccination programme held at Farley Stage Salim ended successfully on 14 March 2026, with many pet owners bringing their dogs for protection against the disease.
The event, organised by the Sibu Division Department of Veterinary Services in partnership with the Sibu Division Chinese Community Chiefs Association, ran from morning until 2.00 pm.
Registration and vaccination counters were set up to manage the flow of participants, while veterinary teams administered the injections throughout the programme.
Pet owners were asked to bring their dogs on strong leashes, along with identification cards. They also needed to ensure their pets were healthy and not pregnant. These steps helped maintain safety and order during the vaccination process.
Rabies continues to pose a serious public health risk in Sarawak. Authorities stress that the disease is fatal yet preventable through vaccination. The free campaign formed part of ongoing efforts to control rabies and encourage responsible pet ownership.
Officials explained that offering the vaccination at no cost allowed more people to participate. Removing the financial barrier ensured wider coverage and helped protect a larger number of dogs in Sibu.
Residents welcomed the initiative, saying the convenient location and organised setup made it easier for them to vaccinate their pets. Many also acknowledged the importance of shared responsibility in protecting both human and animal health.
The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak continues to urge pet owners to remain vigilant by vaccinating their animals regularly. Awareness campaigns and free vaccination drives remain key strategies in reducing rabies cases across the state.
Following the success of the Farley Salim programme, authorities plan to continue similar initiatives in other areas. The strong turnout reflects the community’s commitment to preventing rabies and maintaining public safety.
