KUALA LUMPUR: Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) has called for immediate action and a thorough investigation into a shocking incident of animal cruelty at Ladang Malaya in Selama, Perak.
The incident, which occurred on Dec 22, involved a dog named Kutty. It was fatally injured after being shot with a bow and arrow by a worker for straying into another lane.
Kutty suffered severe injuries and ultimately succumbed to the severe injury sustained.
"This kind of cruelty is unacceptable and goes against the principles of humanity. Immediate and decisive action is crucial to ensure justice is served," it said in a statement.
It also said that the attack violated the Animal Welfare Act 2015, urging witnesses to come forward to aid the investigation.
"Reports can be filed at the nearest police station, and complaints to the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) are necessary to initiate legal proceedings against the perpetrator. Witness testimonies are vital to ensure justice," it added.
The NGO has also called on the police and DVS to conduct a comprehensive investigation, stressing the importance of enforcing Section 30 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which penalises animal cruelty with fines of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
It expressed frustration over persistent cases of animal cruelty despite numerous awareness campaigns, attributing this to weak enforcement of existing laws that allow offenders to escape accountability.
The NGO is urging for stricter legislation and more rigorous enforcement measures to protect animal welfare.
"SAFM calls on the community to stand together in defending animal rights and ensuring offenders face strict penalties. Justice for Kutty is a step toward justice for all animals in need of protection," it said.