K9 Tracker Dog Unit receives boost in Budget 2024

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has elevated the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department’s (JBPM) K9 Tracker Dog Unit by recognising its significant roles and announcing special initiatives during the Malaysia Madani Budget 2024.

This recognition also extended to the late tracker dog, Blake, who played crucial roles in search and rescue operations before succumbing to lymphoma in September this year.

JBPM deputy director-general (Operations) Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad expressed that the Prime Minister’s mention of Blake’s name in his budget speech was a significant recognition of the department and the K9 Unit. He also welcomed the allocation of RM5 million to improve the facilities, medical treatment, and increase the number of tracker dogs within the unit.

Enhancing the K9 Tracker Dog Unit

The JBPM currently houses 30 tracker dogs, with six stationed in Sarawak, four in Sabah, and the remainder at the K9 Unit headquarters in Jalan Klang Lama, Kuala Lumpur.

The allocation will address the challenge of deploying dogs over long distances, with the aim of enhancing their services in fire, wildlife, urban search and rescue, and cadaver investigations.

The RM5 million allocation also covers the K9 Units of the police and Customs Department. JBPM has additionally requested more dog handlers in Sarawak to ensure each dog is managed by a single handler to strengthen the handler-canine partnership.

Special kennel and health monitoring

JBPM is hopeful that the government will approve the construction of a special quarantine kennel for tracker dogs post-surgery, reducing the risk of infection while in the field.

Nor Hisham acknowledged the need for expert oversight of dog health issues and mentioned the current collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia and the Veterinary Services Department to monitor the health of tracker dogs.

The health status of all JBPM tracker dogs is presently satisfactory, ensuring their continued readiness for vital search and rescue operations.

The commitment to improve facilities, medical care, and the number of tracker dogs demonstrates the government’s dedication to strengthening the unit’s essential role in various disciplines. This support not only honours the canine heroes but also ensures their continued effectiveness in serving the community.