Just days after a tragic incident where a baby elephant was fatally struck by a lorry in Gerik, the nation is once again reeling, this time from reports of an authorised culling of stray dogs in Negeri Sembilan.

The proposal, which purportedly targets dogs found loitering in Malay-majority areas, has shocked animal lovers, rights activists, and the broader public alike for its alarming implications and lack of compassion. The suggestion that stray dogs are selectively present in certain communities is not only illogical but also troubling. Dogs, like all animals, move instinctively, not by socio-political demographics.

To politicise an issue rooted in public health, safety, and animal welfare undermines efforts to address it in a humane and scientific manner. Critically, the Animal Welfare Act 2015 provides clear legal guidance. Under Section 30(1), it is unlawful to shoot or kill animals such as dogs and cats unless authorised by the Veterinary Services Department during an emergency or for disease control.

Section 30(2)(e) further stipulates that any such action must be conducted by an authorised authority under written law, with strict adherence to procedure and compassion. Prominent animal rights advocates have spoken out.

S. Shashi Kumar, from the Global Human Rights Federation (GHRF), questioned Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun's support for the culling, asking whether he considers himself an "animal hater" after dismissing NGOs and activists who protested the policy. Kumar also pointed out that discussions are already ongoing between NGOs and federal agencies to create sustainable, humane strategies for controlling stray populations.

Meanwhile, Bar Council president Ezri Abdul Wahab condemned the state’s approach, calling it both legally and morally indefensible. “Local councils do not have legal standing to initiate dog culling on their own.

The plan contradicts Sections 29 and 30(1) of the Animal Welfare Act and could constitute unnecessary animal suffering,” he said. In response to criticism, Menteri Besar Aminuddin clarified that the culling would follow established legal procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs), not be conducted indiscriminately. He emphasised that each local authority (PBT) has its own method of handling stray dog issues based on public complaints and safety concerns.

At the recent State Legislative Assembly, all assemblymen, government and opposition alike, unanimously supported the enforcement of stray dog control measures in Malay-majority areas, citing public safety and nuisance issues. However, this has sparked serious concerns over the ethical and communal implications of such selective targeting.

Animal welfare organisations argue that culling is not a long-term solution. Rather, nationwide efforts should focus on neutering, education, responsible pet ownership, and improving shelter and adoption frameworks. Malaysia has long been a country known for its empathy and kindness. As stewards of our environment and its creatures, we must uphold those values by seeking compassionate, evidence-based solutions that honour both human and animal welfare.

The growing public outcry is a powerful reminder that Malaysians expect policies rooted in humanity, not fear. The government and local councils must collaborate with NGOs, veterinary professionals, and animal rights advocates to implement holistic and lawful approaches that reflect the spirit of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, compassion, responsibility, and justice for all living beings.


Source / Image Credit : Astro Awani, FMT , Sinar Harian