(Kuching, 19th) By 2030, Sarawak will need over 1,000 qualified veterinarians.
To this end, Sarawak's Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Dato Sri Stephen Lundi, proposes the establishment of a Veterinary Research Center in Semenggok to address the serious shortage of veterinarians in the state.
He stated that there are currently 96 veterinarians working in public and private sectors in Sarawak.
“By 2030, we will need at least 1,000 qualified veterinarians (including animal scientists and veterinarians). Hence, my department is working with the Sarawak Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Ministry to establish a Veterinary Research Center to resolve the severe veterinarian shortage in Sarawak.”
He said that with the establishment of the Veterinary Research Center, veterinary services in Sarawak will be strengthened, zoonotic diseases will be eliminated, and the development of Sarawak's RM3 billion livestock industry will be accelerated.
Stephen Lundi disclosed this today during his department's summary in the Sarawak Assembly.
Additionally, he added that the establishment of the Sarawak Livestock Industry Board (SLIB) is also crucial for leading the livestock industry in Sarawak.
“This will enable the Sarawak Veterinary Services Department to focus on its core functions and improve the efficiency of veterinary services, including enforcement, disease control and eradication, and food safety.”