KUCHING: Efforts are continuing in earnest to make Kota Samarahan a rabies-free zone.
Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Datuk Peter Minos said special incentives are on offer for vaccination, microchipping, and neutering of dogs until Sunday (July 28).
These services will be available at the Dewan Perpaduan Stakan Taman Samarindah, Kota Samarahan.
Minos said the services held during the Stop Rabies Programme 2024 are crucial to support the government’s efforts to eradicate rabies.
“To encourage participation, the council is offering special incentives. The first 100 dogs licensed during this event will receive a voucher for a RM10 discount on the dog licence fee and a RM150 subsidy for neutering.
“Licensing fees are RM10 for neutered dogs and RM30 for non-neutered dogs. These incentives aim to promote responsible pet ownership and ensure more dogs are vaccinated and neutered,” he said.
He said in his speech read by MPKS Standing Committee for Community Development chairperson Dr Florince Christy during the opening of the Stop Rabies Programme 2024 held at the Dewan Perpaduan Stakan Taman Samarindah, Kota Samarahan on today (July 27).
Minos said neutering is critical for controlling the dog population and reducing the number of stray dogs, which are at higher risk of contracting and spreading rabies.
“Dog owners play a vital role in this effort, as vaccinating and neutering pets is essential for community safety.
“The goal is to make Kota Samarahan a rabies-free zone, with the cooperation and dedication of all involved parties,” he said.
The Stop Rabies Programme is a collaborative effort involving MPKS, Boehringer Ingelheim, the Veterinary Department of Sarawak, the Samarahan Health Department, the Samarahan District Office, the Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), KRT Taman Samarindah Baru, and KRT Taman Samarindah Lama.
Additionally, the Stop the Rabies Poster Competition among primary school children garnered 128 participants.
The competition aims to educate the younger generation and raise awareness about rabies.
