KUCHING – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS), in partnership with the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS), the Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), and the Sarawak Veterinary Association (SVA), successfully carried out a comprehensive pet care programme at Mayor Song Swee Guan Park, Tabuan Jaya, on 9 May.
The initiative, which ran from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, combined mass vaccination, licensing, microchipping, and subsidised neutering services.
It drew strong participation from dog owners across Kuching South, reflecting growing awareness of responsible pet ownership and rabies prevention.
Under the DVSS-led anti-rabies vaccination campaign, 236 dogs were vaccinated during the one-day event. Of these, 56 dogs received their first dose, while 180 were given booster shots.
The programme was designed to strengthen rabies control measures and ensure pets remain protected against the deadly disease.
Alongside vaccination, MBKS issued 290 dog licences and facilitated the installation of 60 microchips.
These measures improve the traceability of pets, support the enforcement of licensing regulations, and enhance the Council’s ability to manage rabies prevention effectively.
The subsidised neutering programme, jointly conducted by MBKS, SSPCA, and SVA, received 27 applications from pet owners.
This initiative aims to reduce the population of stray and unwanted animals through humane and responsible methods, aligning with broader animal welfare goals in Sarawak.
Mayor of Kuching South, Dato Wee Hong Seng, expressed gratitude to all agencies, volunteers, veterinarians, and members of the public for their cooperation.
He highlighted the importance of community involvement in ensuring the success of such programmes.
“Rabies prevention is a shared responsibility, and continuous public participation is important to ensure a safer and healthier environment for both the community and animals,” he said.
Dato Wee also encouraged pet owners to vaccinate and license their dogs annually, microchip their pets, and practise responsible ownership.
He stressed that MBKS remains committed to maintaining a safe and healthy city through proactive measures and collaboration with the community.
Rabies has been a public health concern in Sarawak since outbreaks were first reported in 2017. Authorities have since intensified vaccination campaigns and awareness programmes to curb the spread of the disease.
The latest MBKS initiative demonstrates how local councils, veterinary bodies, and animal welfare organisations can work together to safeguard both human and animal health.
The strong turnout at Mayor Song Swee Guan Park underscores the community’s willingness to support long-term rabies prevention strategies.
With continued cooperation between authorities and residents, Kuching South aims to strengthen its position as a model city for responsible pet ownership and public safety.
