DESPITE efforts by municipal councils and animal welfare organisations to control the population of strays, stray animals continue to face violence, mostly at the hands of humans.
This is related to the deaths of 27 dogs in Tanjung Bungah, Penang, in July and another 20 in a housing area in Seremban, Negri Sembilan, last May, allegedly due to poisoning, according to reports.
Strays need our mercy and compassion, not cruelty and violence.
Malaysia has laws to protect animals, such as the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
However, enforcement remains a challenge because often, the identity of perpetrators is not known.
Citizens must be encouraged to report cruelty and support investigations.
Animal welfare organisations and activists are at the forefront of the fight against cruelty.
Through rescue operations, legal advocacy and public awareness campaigns, they work to bring about change.
Supporting these organisations through donations, volunteering and spreading their message amplifies their impact and helps create a more compassionate world.
Social media platforms can spread messages and mobilise public action.
Education is key to changing attitudes towards animals in Malaysia.
Schools, media and community programmes can foster empathy and understanding, encouraging the younger generation to advocate for animal rights.
By teaching children about the importance of kindness and respect for living beings, we can build a more compassionate society.
In short, ending animal cruelty requires collective action and a shift in societal values.
Animals, like humans, deserve to live free from suffering. As we become more aware of the cruelty they endure, we must take responsibility for our actions and advocate for their rights.
We can make a difference in the lives of animals and move towards a future where cruelty is a thing of the past.
Whether it's adopting a rescue pet, being a responsible pet owner, or speaking out against animal abuse, we have the power to create change.
DR SHEILA RAMALINGAM
Senior lecturer, Faculty of Law,
Universiti Malaya
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times