KOTA SAMARAHAN, Aug. 22 -- Three cats were among 26 animals confirmed positive for rabies in Sarawak so far this year, with the remaining 23 cases involving dogs.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the figures, based on data from the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS), were verified as of Aug 20.

"As a medical doctor and your Minister for Public Health, I must remind everyone of the sobering reality. Since July 2017, Sarawak has recorded 94 human rabies cases with 87 deaths, data verified with JKNS on Aug 20, 2026. That is a fatality rate near 93 per cent. Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost universally fatal. Yet, it is 100 per cent preventable.

"From the animal health side, for 2026, to date, a t...