Rise in animal abuse reports shows greater public concern, says DVS


KUALA LUMPUR: The public is becoming increasingly concerned about animal abuse cases with complaints showing an upward trend.

Deputy director-general (Development) of the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) Dr Suratan Kamarudin said the number of complaints received rose from 1,000 in 2021 to more than 2,000 last year.

He said the increase did not necessarily indicate an increase in actual abuse cases but reflected the community’s concern.

ALSO READ: A nation’s duty to its voiceless strays

"When we conduct our investigations (we find that) only a few cases actually involve neglect or abuse,” he said on the programme Apa Khabar Malaysia over Bernama TV on Monday (July 29).

He said animal abuse or neglect cases can be reported through the MyAnimalWelfare digital platform, which will forward the complaints to DVS field officers.

According to Dr Suratan, the most complaints received involved dogs (5,226 reports cumulatively), followed by cats (1,900 reports).

ALSO READ: Alleged husky abuse case filled with twists

Other reports of abuse or neglect involved horses, rabbits and birds, he added.

He said criminal offences involving abuse that cause pain or suffering to animals, such as beating, kicking or excessive confinement, killing, poisoning and using animals such as cockerels and dogs for fighting can be prosecuted under Sections 29 to 32 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015.

Meanwhile, neglect is defined as a failure to provide basic aspects of animal welfare, such as a suitable home environment, health care and adequate food under Section 34 of the same Act.

"For a criminal offence, a convicted offender can be fined between RM20,000 and RM100,000 or imprisoned for three years, or both.

"For neglect, the fine is between RM15,000 and RM75,000 with the same prison sentence,” he said. – Bernama

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Nation

Two crocs captured in Kota Marudu, no sign of missing man
Let's greet Malaysia Day as one people and with heightened patriotism, says Lam Thye
Why set illogical conditions in allocation MOU, asks PAS deputy president
Nine-year-old girl almost abducted in Bukit Beruntung
Admin assistants feel sidelined under SSPA, says union
Expected counter-proposals, but I respect the Opposition's rejection, says Fadillah
For Sabah teens, being part of Malaysia Day gala is worth giving up school hols
PAS leader says no to MOU, claims it forces equal rights
PAS will close Genting casino if it has jurisdiction, says party's Pahang branch
Strong winds uproot trees in 20 locations on Penang island

Others Also Read