Abang Johari (fourth right) unveiling the signage, while other dignitaries look on. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING: The state government through the Ministry of Local Government and Housing (MLGH) Sarawak is intensifying efforts in fighting Rabies with the launching of the Rabies Awareness Signage.
The launching ceremony held at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building today was officiated by the Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Also present were deputy chief ministers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Assistant Minister of Local Government Datu Dr Penguang Manggil and Assistant Minister of Rural Electricity Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
According to MLGH permanent secretary Bakrie Zaini, the state has taken numerous measures in fighting Rabies and the launching of the Rabies Awareness Signage will act as a permanent reminder to the public about the danger of Rabies.
“This signage is an important communication tool for awareness as they help to indicate various warnings which is the first line of defence against Rabies.
“So far, we are satisfied with the many efforts taken through the mass media including social media and print media, in spreading information about Rabies. The awareness on Rabies has increased and we continue to intensify such efforts,” he told reporters when met after the launching ceremony today.
Bakrie emphasised that close cooperation between the Veterinary Department, Health Ministry and several other local authorities have greatly assisted in fighting Rabies.
“So far, the local authorities have deployed 160 officers statewide to monitor the situation on our streets with stray dogs. We are also trying to reduce the number of stray dogs,” said Bakrie.
He revealed that based on statistics of dog bites, most of those bites were from stray dogs.
“However, pet dogs are actually the ones who are spreading Rabies. Thus, it is vital for pet owners and the community as a whole to be more aware on this disease.”
In an effort to curb the spread of Rabies, the state government has also introduced the new Local Dog Licensing and Control By-Laws, which will be enforced starting Dec 1 this year, he said.
“This is to ensure that every pet owner will license their pets.
“I would also like to advise the general public in Sarawak who owns dog to license their dogs for the good of all,” he added.
Meanwhile, MLGH in its statement to the press revealed that the hazard symbol and red header of the signage is to indicate the seriousness of the current Rabies issue.
“Red means danger, across various cultures and it will be implemented statewide by Ministry of Local Government and Housing Sarawak at places such as schools, longhouses, places of worships, parking lots, markets, bus terminals, public attractions, borders and the Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ).
“This will draw the public’s attention and raise awareness and urgency on precautionary measures in preventing Rabies,” it said.
The signage also includes other key information including licensing and vaccination of pet dogs as well as ways to become a more responsible pet owner and civilian by leaving other animals alone.