IPB University’s Role in Shaping the Future of Sarawak’s Veterinary Transformation
IPB University’s Role in Shaping the Future of Sarawak’s Veterinary Transformation
IPB University actively pursues its vision of becoming a “Pendidikan Mendunia” (World-Class University) by establishing an offshore campus in Sarawak, Malaysia. This initiative addresses the region’s critical shortage of veterinarians. The effort builds on discussions from May 2023 when Sarawak’s Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Director Datu Dr. Adrian Susin Ambud visited IPB University.
On November 20, 2024, representatives from the Directorate of International Education, the Directorate of Global Connectivity, and the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences attended a forum in Kuching. Dr. William Nating, Acting Deputy Director of Livestock Industry Development at DVS, hosted the forum.
Sarawak’s Veterinary Workforce Challenges
Currently, Sarawak faces a critical shortage of veterinarians, with only 96 active professionals, including 50 employed in public or government institutions. During the forum, participants viewed Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Utom’s speech delivered at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on November 19, 2024.
Significantly, the Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development (M-FICORD) emphasized the need to increase Sarawak’s veterinary workforce to 1,000 by 2030. He highlighted the importance of enhancing veterinary education to meet this ambitious target.
Exploring Collaborative Initiatives
The forum generated several collaborative proposals between IPB University and DVS. These included professional training programs for veterinarians and paramedics, offered at IPB University or through partnerships with its experts. Participants also explored joint research opportunities in animal nutrition, livestock breeding, and vaccine development. DVS proposed increasing the enrollment of Sarawakian students in the Kelas Internasional (International Class) at IPB University’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in Bogor. This internationally recognized program consistently produces highly skilled veterinarians, making it an ideal option for Sarawakian students seeking advanced veterinary education.
Moreover, Mr. Watson Doo, Principal Assistant Director of the Department of Education Financing and Repayment at Yayasan Sarawak, suggested offering scholarships. These scholarships may come from self-funding, private sponsorships, or Yayasan Sarawak.
In addition, IPB University relies on its world-class faculty, international collaborations, and extensive experience in veterinary sciences to address Sarawak’s workforce needs. To support Sarawak’s goal of 1,000 veterinarians by 2030, IPB University plans to provide extra quotas and tailor-made classes for Sarawakian students and DVS staff.
The partnership between Kerajaan Sarawak and IPB University advances veterinary education and research, contributes to Sarawak’s livestock sector growth, and ensures a lasting impact in the region and beyond.
