RM2,000 fine soon for Kuching dog owners who ignore rabies rules
Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the current RM50 compound had proven ineffective as a deterrent, prompting the council to seek stronger action.
He did not specify when MBKS would enforce the increased penalty but said it would be "within this year."
Speaking to reporters after announcing the construction of a RM1.5 million community centre at the Taman Hui Sing residential area, Wee said he had received approval from the relevant authorities to impose the increased penalty.
"People still don't listen when we keep reminding them to keep their pets within their compounds," he said.
He added that MBKS had ramped up its free rabies vaccination programme from twice a year to five times annually after much of Kuching South was declared a rabies-infected area.
"We are doing our part. The public must do theirs. Everyone has a role to play in keeping society safe."
Wee also stressed that the council would not entertain appeals for waivers on the grounds of financial hardship.
"We understand that times are bad. But no matter how difficult things are, you cannot risk other people's lives. Pet owners have been given ample opportunities to comply," he said.
Under the Animal Act 1953, failure to vaccinate a dog in a rabies-infected area carries a fine not exceeding RM5,000, or imprisonment of up to three months, or both.
In Sarawak, when an area is officially declared rabies-infected by the Department of Veterinary Services, the Rabies Order and Rabies Vaccination Order come into force.
Taman Hui Sing once had a serious problem with rabies-infected strays.
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