KUALA LUMPUR: Bera member of Parliament Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob today expressed concern over the growing number of local councils using their respective by-laws to justify the killing or shooting of stray animals.
Ismail Sabri said that despite the existence of local by-laws, the Animal Welfare Act passed by Parliament takes precedence and should guide actions concerning the treatment of stray animals.
"The Animal Welfare Act was passed in Parliament; this act binds local councils and others in terms of action, even though they have by-laws. However, because this act was passed in Parliament, it takes precedence over by-laws," he said.
"We hope local authorities will not use their by-laws as an excuse to shoot or harm stray animals without reasonable cause, as permitted by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS)," he added when debating the Supply Bill 2025 at the committee level today.
He also called for a review of the Animal Welfare Act, suggesting that if necessary, amendments should be made to strengthen the law.
Ismail Sabri also urged local councils to collaborate with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that provide shelters for abandoned or stray animals.
"Many NGOs offer shelter for stray animals, and we hope local authorities will work with these organisations to ensure the welfare of animals by providing proper protection and care," he said.
He also suggested that the government consider establishing a dedicated committee or task force to oversee animal cruelty cases or to hand over enforcement responsibilities to other law enforcement bodies.
While acknowledging that some animals may become a nuisance by scavenging in trash bins or wandering the streets, Ismail Sabri said these animals are often hungry and homeless, which leads to such behaviour.
"We may be frustrated by animals rummaging through our trash or wandering around, but they do so because they are hungry and have no shelter. It is our responsibility to care for their welfare."