KUALA LUMPUR: A heated debate unfolded in the Dewan Rakyat today over the recent killing of a stray dog known as "Kopi" in Besut, Terengganu.
The matter was raised in Parliament, leading to intense exchanges among members of parliament (MPs).
Besut MP Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh defended the actions of the Besut District Council, which was responsible for the dog's killing, arguing that it was part of a broader effort to tackle the growing issue of stray dogs in the area.
"Previously, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer described the actions of the Besut District Council staff as brutal and inhumane.
"However, the reality is that there have been numerous complaints regarding stray dogs in Besut, with 800 reported and 131 complaints already lodged," he said during the debate on the Supply (Budget) Bill 2025.
He said the stray animals posed risks to public health and safety, justifying the council's actions.
"Stray animals create disturbances, pose a rabies risk, cause injuries to the public, and contribute to litter on roads, which can lead to accidents. Our actions are not reckless; we do not simply shoot on sight," he said,
Kampar MP Chong Zhemin countered Mohamad's argument, accusing him of disseminating misleading information and asserting that the killing of the dog contravened the law.
He cited the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which prohibits such actions without following proper procedures.
"What was stated earlier by Besut is misleading and incorrect. According to Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, you cannot kill a dog in this manner.
"Even for a stray, humane capture is required; harming the dog is not permissible," he said.
"Retract that statement. There's no justification for killing a stray dog," he insisted.
The exchange intensified as Mohamad attempted to clarify that the authorities had adhered to the correct procedures. However, Chong remained adamant, insisting the killing was unlawful.
"Listen carefully!"Mohamad raised his voice. In response, Chong asserted, "This is the law. There is no justification for this."
Despite Mohamad's claims that procedures were followed, Chong retorted, "You cannot kill a dog like that! This is against the law. As an MP, Besut should uphold the laws of the country. This is clearly a violation."
"You cannot kill like this. Besut needs to go back and read the law," he stated.
The tension eventually subsided when Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul intervened, directing both MPs to take their seats.