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Kota Kinabalu: The Department of Veterinary Services Sabah (DVS Sabah) said enforcement actions in a recent animal welfare case were carried out in accordance with the Animal Welfare Enactment 2015 and existing enforcement protocols following formal complaints received.

In a statement issued Friday, DVS Sabah director Dr Zul Bahar responded to a recent Facebook post by appointed assemblyman Datuk Roger Chin regarding the Department’s handling of the case.

Zul said enforcement officers conduct investigations based on information and evidence provided by complainants and witnesses, while veterinary officers may be engaged as expert witnesses to provide clinical assessments and medical context where necessary.

He said repeated visits by enforcement officers may occur when multiple or repeated complaints are lodged, requiring follow-up actions and on-site verification, while parties involved are informed of relevant legal provisions and possible consequences of non-compliance.

Zul said the Department acknowledged public concerns over perceptions that the matter had been enforcement-heavy, adding that DVS Sabah remained committed to balancing enforcement with clear communication, appropriate veterinary input, professionalism, fairness and sensitivity in handling animal welfare cases.