A HEATED debate erupted in the Dewan Rakyat over the recent killing of stray dog “Kopi” in Besut, Terengganu.
The incident, which had sparked widespread outrage on social media, also led to a fiery exchange between MPs in the august House.
Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh (Besut-PN) defended the actions of the Besut District Council, which had been responsible for the killing of the dog.
He said it was not an isolated act of cruelty but rather part of an ongoing effort to address the growing problem of stray dogs in the area.
“(Previously), Jelutong (MP RSN Rayer) said the actions of the Besut District Council staff were brutal and inhumane in killing a stray dog.
“But the fact is, there have been many complaints about stray dogs in Besut – there are 800 stray dogs and 131 complaints have already been lodged,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat when debating the Supply Bill 2025 yesterday.
Che Mohamad went on to justify the council’s actions, saying stray animals pose a significant risk to public health and safety.
“There is justification. Stray animals have a negative impact – they cause disturbances in the area, pose the risk of rabies and injury to the public, and create a mess with faeces on the roads, which can even lead to accidents.
“It’s not reckless; we don’t simply shoot on sight,” he added.
Chong Zhemin (Kampar-PH) was quick to challenge Che Mohamad’s defence, accusing him of providing misleading information and asserting that the killing of the dog violated the law.He said under the Animal Welfare Act 2015, such actions are not permitted.
“What Besut said earlier is misleading and wrong. He said the killing of the dog can be justified.
“According to Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, you cannot kill a dog like that.
“You must follow the standard operating procedure. Even if it’s a stray dog, it must be captured humanely. You cannot harm the dog,” he said.
Chong demanded that Che Mohamad retract his statement, reiterating that there is no legal justification for such actions.
The exchange between the two MPs intensified as Che Mohamad maintained that the authorities had followed the correct procedures.
However, Chong remained firm, insisting that the killing was unlawful.
“Listen carefully!” Che Mohamad said while raising his voice.
Chong responded, “This is the law. There is no justification for this.”
Che Mohamad continued to insist that procedures were followed, but Chong retorted: “You cannot kill a dog like that! This is against the law. As an MP, Besut should defend the laws of the country. This is clearly a violation of the law.
“You cannot kill like this. Besut needs to go back and read the law,” he added while highlighting the importance of adhering to Malaysia’s legal protections for animal welfare.
The tension eased when Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul intervened, instructing both MPs to take their seats.
