When contacted, Sarawak DVS director Datu Dr Adrian Susin said the samples have been sent to the Muara Tuang Sarawak Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory to determine whether the pigs in the farms were infected with African Swine Fever (ASF).

“DVS Sibu is investigating the matter and collecting blood samples from two nearby farms for testing at the Muara Tuang Sarawak Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory as we suspect ASF,” he told The Borneo Post.

When asked whether samples were taken from the reported carcasses, Dr Adrian said the carcasses could not be located.

He assured the public that pork available in the local market remains safe for consumption as it has undergone stringent veterinary inspection.

He also reminded pig farmers to report any signs of disease to DVS as required under the law to enable early detection and prevent potential outbreaks.

Meanwhile, State Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (Public Health and Housing) Datuk Michael Tiang said the Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) will work closely with DVS Sibu to investigate the matter.

“SRDC will liaise with the DVS Sibu to investigate the matter, as any dead pig carcasses found dumped in public places fall under the jurisdiction of the Veterinary Department for the necessary investigation and appropriate action,” he said.

Separately, Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd assured the public that operations at the Salim Water Intake remain normal and unaffected.

The utility company said it immediately deployed its operations team to inspect the reported location in accordance with standard operating procedures to assess any potential impact on water quality or supply operations.

“Based on the findings of the site investigation, no abnormalities or incidents were detected within the operational boundary of the Salim Water Intake or any Sarawak Water facilities in the area,” it said in a statement.

It clarified that the reported location is outside the operational area of the Salim Water Intake and does not involve any of its assets or infrastructure.

“There has been no impact on the safety, quality or continuity of treated water supplied to consumers,” it added.

Sarawak Water also said it has informed the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) for their information and any further action deemed necessary.