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Malaysia
Dog & Cat Regulations
Vaccinations
Valid rabies vaccination is required for importation. For Peninsular Malaysia, animals arriving from non‑scheduled (rabies‑risk) countries are subject to quarantine on arrival. Sabah and Sarawak apply their own additional rabies control rules (see below).
- Pet must be at least 3 months old at time of import into Peninsular Malaysia.
- Proof of current rabies vaccination must be recorded on the official veterinary health certificate.
- State-specific rules: Sabah requires a rabies antibody titre; Sarawak may reduce or waive quarantine based on titre and origin.
Certifications
An import permit is mandatory and is issued by different authorities depending on the destination within Malaysia.
- Peninsular Malaysia: Obtain a MAQIS import permit before arrival.
- Sabah: Obtain an import licence from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Sabah.
- Sarawak: Obtain an import permit from DVS Sarawak.
Microchip
An ISO-compliant microchip is required for dogs and cats for import into Peninsular Malaysia; the number should appear on all documents. Sabah and Sarawak also require permanent identification in line with their import conditions.
Origin Requirements
No origin-specific requirements for this pet.
More Info
Quarantine – Peninsular Malaysia
Quarantine requirements depend on the origin country’s rabies status. For non‑scheduled countries, a minimum of 7 days quarantine applies at an approved MAQIS animal quarantine station. For scheduled or rabies‑free origins, confirm current requirements with DVS/MAQIS and arrange a booking as required.
- Reserve space at a designated MAQIS animal quarantine station before arrival.
- Present the import permit and health documents for inspection on arrival.
Quarantine – Sabah
Sabah applies additional conditions to dog/cat imports (including movements from Peninsular Malaysia). Quarantine duration depends on titre compliance.
- Minimum 14 days quarantine when all conditions (including rabies antibody titre ≥ 0.5 IU/ml) are met.
- Quarantine up to 60 days if titre or other requirements are incomplete.
- Enter only via approved points designated by DVS Sabah.
Quarantine – Sarawak
Sarawak applies state-specific rules. Quarantine and documentation requirements vary by origin and titre.
- From West Malaysia/Sabah/Singapore: generally 14 days quarantine unless a rabies antibody titre > 0.5 IU/ml is demonstrated in accordance with Sarawak regulations.
- Rabies-free origin list may have no quarantine; confirm with DVS Sarawak before travel.
Breed Restrictions
Certain dog breeds are banned or restricted federally and/or by state authorities. Verify acceptability with DVS/MAQIS and the destination state authority before applying for permits.
Country Classification Notices
DVS updated country classifications on 13 March 2026 and suspended the 23 May 2025 versions on 5 February 2026. Use the 13 March 2026 notice together with the relevant base regulation.
- Confirm your origin country’s current classification with DVS/MAQIS when applying for the import permit.
