Animal Welfare in Malaysia: A Call for Reform
Stray Animal Management and Abuse on the Rise
Kuala Lumpur: Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia, a non-governmental organization, is urging the government to address concerns about animal welfare, particularly the treatment of stray animals. According to statistics from the Veterinary Services Department, dogs are the most abused species in Malaysia, with 11,450 reported cases of abuse from 2021 to 2024, followed by cats with 5,715 cases.
Reform Demands
The association’s president, Kalaivanan Ravichandran, emphasized the need for reforms that not only address abuse but also the broader issue of stray animal management. One of the most pressing demands is a reform of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which Kalaivanan believes does not go far enough to protect animals from cruel practices, such as shooting and inhumane capture methods.
Trap Neuter and Return (TNR) Programme
Kalaivanan also called for the implementation of a nationwide TNR programme, which he believes would help control the stray animal population humanely, reducing overpopulation without resorting to culling. He also insisted on the establishment of an Independent Animal Welfare Board under the Prime Minister’s Office, which would prioritize the wellbeing of animals and offer them a better chance at a life outside of cages.
Stricter Regulations and Education
The association urged the government to educate the public on animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of neutering and adopting strays. Kalaivanan called for stricter penalties for cruelty and neglect, urging that existing laws be more consistently enforced to deter abuse. He also pressed for dedicated government funding to support NGOs in their work of rescuing and rehabilitating stray animals.
Kopi’s Story
On October 6 last year, a stray dog named Kopi gained national attention after a 52-second video was widely spread, showing the dog suffering from severe injuries inflicted by a gunshot and dying in Besut. The Besut district council defended its actions, asserting that the shooting followed field procedures for controlling stray dog populations. However, animal welfare advocates condemned the killing, calling for greater enforcement of existing animal welfare laws.
Candlelight Gathering for Justice for Kopi and All Stray Animals
On Saturday, nearly 500 individuals gathered for the Candlelight Gathering for Justice for Kopi and All Stray Animals in Dataran Merdeka, marking the largest gathering for animal law reform in Malaysia. The event was organized by the Malaysia Animal Welfare Association in collaboration with Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia and the Global Human Rights Federation, with support from a coalition of animal NGOs in Malaysia.
Conclusion
The plight of stray animals in Malaysia is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. It is crucial that the government takes concrete steps to address the abuse and neglect of these animals. The proposed reforms and initiatives outlined by Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia are a step in the right direction and should be implemented without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main concern of Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia?
A: The main concern is the treatment of stray animals, particularly the abuse and neglect they face.
Q: What are the key demands of the association?
A: The key demands include reforming the Animal Welfare Act 2015, implementing a Trap Neuter and Return (TNR) programme, and establishing an Independent Animal Welfare Board under the Prime Minister’s Office.
Q: What is the purpose of the Candlelight Gathering for Justice for Kopi and All Stray Animals?
A: The event aims to raise awareness about animal welfare and advocate for the rights of stray animals in Malaysia.
Q: What is the current situation of animal welfare in Malaysia?
A: According to statistics, dogs are the most abused species in Malaysia, with 11,450 reported cases of abuse from 2021 to 2024, followed by cats with 5,715 cases.