KUALA LUMPUR, November 29 – In a groundbreaking step for animal welfare, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM), in collaboration with IAPWA Penang and the Animal Kindness Coalition, brought the plight of Malaysia’s stray animals to Parliament. Led by SAFM President Kalaivanan Ravichandran, the coalition urged lawmakers to strengthen legislation, enhance enforcement, and implement humane solutions to address the nation’s stray animal crisis.
The session, attended by several MPs, highlighted the urgent need for reforms, including amendments to the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and Local Government Act 1976, and proposed scientifically-backed methods like Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return-Manage (TNVRM) programs. Key proposals included mandatory microchipping, shared animal welfare databases, and stronger enforcement to ensure accountability.
MPs responded positively, recognizing the critical need for action and committing to further collaboration. Highlighting Penang’s humane stray dog management program as a model of success, the coalition stressed that sustainable, compassionate policies are vital to creating a humane future for Malaysia’s strays. “This milestone marks a renewed optimism for animal welfare,” said Kalaivanan, calling on Malaysians to unite for a compassionate nation.
