YBhg. Datu Dr. Adrian Susin Ambud
Organising Chairperson
Director, Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak
It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to each of you to the 3rd edition of Rabies in Borneo (RIB) 2024.
The battle against rabies is one that requires resolute dedication, collaboration, and innovation. Over the past years, DVSS, along with our valued partners including the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit, the Ministry of Public Health, Local Government and Housing, Sarawak State Health Department, Sarawak Public Communications Unit, Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and other agencies have been at the forefront of implementing comprehensive measures ranging from dog vaccination, enforcement, neutering and licensing to population control and surveillance. Our commitment to adopting a One Health approach underscores our determination to eradicate rabies in Sarawak by 2030.
This conference stands as a testament to our ongoing efforts to seek out novel strategies and solutions in our mission to prevent, control, and ultimately eradicate rabies. By bringing together experts, stakeholders, and key agencies, we aim to foster fruitful discussions, exchange valuable insights, and forge meaningful partnerships that will bolster our collective fight against this deadly disease.
A total of 45 out of 174 animals in Sarawak have been tested positive so this year. The total number of human rabies fatalities is 71 out of 78 cases since the outbreak was declared in the state in July 2017.
I therefore implore each and every one of you to share your expertise and contribute to Sarawak's efforts in eradicating rabies from this region. Our goal of achieving zero rabies in dogs by the year 2030 is more urgent than ever, and Sarawak is in dire need of assistance in this critical battle.
Together let us strengthen our collaboration to pave the way towards a Rabies Free Borneo and I eagerly anticipate engaging with each of you at RIB 2024.
Mona Abdul Manap
Conference Convenor
Chief Executive Officer, Place Borneo Sdn Bhd
It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all participants of the Rabies in Borneo (RIB) 2024! As we embark on the third year of this vital gathering, we are more committed than ever to the mission of eradicating rabies from our communities. This year, under the theme "Together Against Rabies: Protecting Animals, Enforcing Laws, Engaging Communities," we aim to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and explore innovative strategies to combat this preventable disease.
Your presence at this conference is instrumental in our collective efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of both humans and animals. By joining forces, we can effectively protect our communities and create a safer, rabies-free environment for future generations.
Throughout the conference, I encourage you to actively engage in discussions, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships that will drive impactful change. Together, let us harness our expertise and passion to make significant strides in the fight against rabies.
Once again, welcome to Rabies in Borneo (RIB) 2024. Thank you for your dedication to this crucial cause, and I look forward to fruitful collaborations and meaningful discussions ahead.