SANDAKAN: The wording used on dog registration tags issued under the Sandakan Municipal Council’s (MPS) animal licensing system has sparked public discussion, with Sandakan MP Vivian Wong calling for a review of the terminology used.
The issue gained attention after a dog owner lodged a complaint and shared it on social media regarding the use of the word “b***h” on registration tags for female dogs.
While the term is technically recognised in veterinary and breeding terminology as the correct designation for a female dog, the complainant argued that it is widely perceived as offensive and derogatory in everyday English.
In a letter addressed to the council, the complainant requested that MPS consider replacing the term with alternatives such as “Female Dog”, “Female Canine” or simply “F” to avoid causing unnecessary offence while maintaining accurate animal identification records.
The concern was later echoed by Wong in a social media post, where she acknowledged that the term is technically correct within animal registration systems but questioned its suitability for public-facing documents and tags.
“I understand that the term ‘b***h’ is a technical term used in animal registration to refer to a female dog.
“However, when the term is printed on tags or used in official documents that are seen by the public, I believe we should also be mindful of public perception and the use of more appropriate language,” she said.
Wong noted that language evolves over time and that terms considered technically accurate may not always be the most suitable in every context.
She suggested that the authorities review whether alternatives such as “female dog” could be adopted without compromising the accuracy of official records.
“This is not about being overly sensitive; it is about choosing language that is appropriate in public service and communication with the community,” she added.
The issue has since generated mixed reactions online. Some netizens argued that the term remains the internationally accepted veterinary description for a female dog and should not be viewed as offensive when used in its proper context.
Others supported the call for change, saying government agencies should adopt terminology that is more easily understood by the general public and less likely to be misconstrued.
As of now, MPS has not issued an official response on whether the terminology used on animal registration tags will be reviewed.
The debate highlights the challenge of balancing technical accuracy with the need for public-facing language that is appropriate and sensitive to community perceptions.