Kota Kinabalu offering S$0.60 bounty on each rat to tackle infestation

As part of a nationwide campaign, the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) has put up a RM2 (S$0.60) bounty on each rat in town till Jul. 31.

According to The Star, it is part of a Malaysia-wide campaign involving 10 local authorities, organised by the Malaysian Housing and Local Government Ministry, with Kota Kinabalu representing Sabah.

The campaign aims to eradicate rat infestations, particularly in public markets, and to raise awareness about the health risks posed by rats.

This aims to achieve a Rodent Index of one and below, a formula used to estimate rodent populations based on trapping data. The data measures the number of rats caught over seven days using 12 live traps, The Star reported.

It also aims to improve the efficiency of local authorities tackling rat control, enhance environmental cleanliness and "foster healthy competition among local councils."

Not the first time

DBKK mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah said this is not the first time such a campaign has been held.

In 2023, 1,299 rats were exterminated, while 775 were eliminated between January and June 2024. Additionally, 528 rats were eliminated during the same period in 2025, said The Star.

Sabin added that 111 rats were caught between January and June 2024 at Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

In 2025, 187 rats have been caught so far, and this initiative aligns with the city hall's vision of making Kota Kinabalu a liveable, safe, clean and healthy living space for all.

Sabin stated that the campaign will also include communal clean-ups at the Central Market and the implementation of rat control measures following rat control guidelines.

In addition, there will be stall cleanliness competitions and rat-catching contests with cash prizes, said The Star.

Sabin also warned of the health risks posed by rats, such as leptospirosis, which is a bacterial disease transmitted to humans through water or food contaminated by rat urine.

Top photos via Canva