Dogs found roaming outside their owners’ residential compounds in Kota Samarahan, Sarawak may be seized by authorities and will not be returned if complaints are lodged, according to Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ali.
He said the move forms part of stricter enforcement measures aimed at controlling the spread of rabies, particularly after a recent fatal case reported in the area.
Abang Ismawi explained that even licensed dogs left wandering outside the house gate could be taken away by enforcement officers if complaints are received from the public.
“Even if the dog is licensed but it is outside the gate and complaints are made, once we seize it the owner will not be able to reclaim it. Because of such situations, enforcement has to be very strict,” he told reporters during the Walkabout Anti-Rabies Vaccination Programme, Licensing, Microchip and Rabies Health Education event held at UniCentral Recreation Park on Saturday.
He added that existing by-laws require dog owners to properly register their pets, warning that those who fail to obtain licences may face compounds of up to RM2,500.
The council chairman urged pet owners to act responsibly by ensuring their dogs are vaccinated and properly licensed to prevent the spread of rabies and safeguard public safety.
During the programme, MPKS also offered free dog licensing for 2026, with the licence valid for a three-year period.
The initiative, organised under the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG), involved collaboration with several agencies including the Sarawak Department of Veterinary Services, the State Health Department and MPKS.
According to Abang Ismawi, the Veterinary Department provided free rabies vaccinations, while health officials educated the public on the proper steps to take in the event of an animal bite.
He said the anti-rabies campaign is currently focusing on locations within a 10-kilometre radius of Kampung Jernang, where a 44-year-old man linked to the recent rabies case had been living.
The victim later died at Sarawak General Hospital on Feb 25.
Abang Ismawi noted that the campaign had originally been planned earlier as part of the council’s regular anti-rabies outreach activities, although the recent fatality has prompted authorities to intensify efforts in promoting vaccination and licensing.
“This programme was already part of our scheduled activities. After the incident occurred, we took the opportunity to further encourage dog owners to come forward for licensing and vaccination,” he said.
He also expressed condolences to the family of the victim, stressing that firm enforcement remains necessary to prevent further cases.
“We extend our sympathies to the victim’s family, but strict action is needed because otherwise the problem will not stop,” he said.
