An animal shelter that will allow cats and dogs to roam within large spaces is expected to be completed in Kuala Langat, Selangor, next month.
The facility, located along Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad in Banting, is estimated to cost RM1.9mil.
Kuala Langat Municipal Council (MPKL) president Mohd Hasry Nor Mohd said the facility would separate dogs and cats, but allow them to roam within their designated areas.
The dogs will especially enjoy an open-air area within the 1ha site.
The concept, he said, was inspired by a similar centre in Langkawi, Kedah, which was jointly managed by Langkawi Municipal Council Tourism City and Ecotourism & Conservation Society of Malaysia.
“We believe strays should be treated in the most humane way possible,” he said after chairing the MPKL full board meeting in Banting.
Mohd Hasry said the pound was located on land that had been gazetted a reserve area under MPKL.
“However, some individuals encroached into the land and had planted crops,” he said, adding that the site had been cleared, while contractors were asked to plant oil palms to provide shade for the animals.
“The dog pound serves mainly as a quarantine area for sick animals, while healthy dogs will be allowed to roam freely in an open section,” he added.
On a separate matter, Mohd Hasry said most illegal dumping incidents occurred outside MPKL jurisdiction, often within village areas.
“We rely on reports lodged by nearby residents.
“Closed circuit TV cameras have been installed at hotspot areas.
“They will be placed temporarily and if there are no recurring activities within three months, they will be relocated.”
Upon receiving reports, he said council officers would visit the site immediately.
“If illegal dumping is confirmed, the council will handle the cleanup.
“However, if the issue involves land-use violations, it will fall under the jurisdiction of Kuala Langat District and Land Office,” he added.
Mohd Hasry said joint patrols were also carried out with other agencies, including the Fire and Rescue Department and district office, using drones to monitor hotspot areas.
“So far, Jalan Sempadan and Jalan Sijangkang Utama have been identified as the two main dumping hotspots this year.
“Most of the waste comprise industrial materials,” he said, adding that the offenders were often from outside the Kuala Langat district.
