The Govt Has Released 65,000 Bacteria-Infected Mosquitoes in Putrajaya, Here’s Why!

The Property Management Division (BPH), an agency under the Prime Minister’s Department, recently shared that 65,000 mosquitoes injected with the Wolbachia bacteria have been released at two Civil Servants Housing (PPA) premises in Putrajaya.

This was part of an effort to replace the local Aedes mosquito population.

65,000 mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia bacteria were released in Putrajaya

Taking to their Facebook page, BPH explained that the programme aims to strengthen dengue control in Putrajaya using innovative, science-based approaches that complement conventional control methods to combat vector-borne diseases.

They added that the establishment of the Putrajaya Wolbachia Insectarium in August 2025 will support the supply of adult Wolbachia mosquitoes for release in affected locations.

However, it is important to note that residents in the areas where the mosquitoes were released still need to maintain the cleanliness of the residential area and monitor spots that could potentially become mosquito breeding grounds.

An approach recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)

State Health Director for Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (JKWPKL&P), Datin Dr Haliza Abdul Manaf, explained that this intervention is in line with the recommendations by WHO in combating Aedes mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika and Yellow Fever.

She shared that the Aedes mosquitoes that were released have been injected with the Wolbachia bacteria, which is to prevent Dengue using biological agents that are safe for humans and the environment, and can replace the wild Aedes mosquito population.

The release of the mosquitoes has started in stages per week, beginning 21 November (Friday) and will be ongoing until 12 January (Monday).

What do you think about this? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.

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