KUALA LUMPUR: The Stray Animal Foundation Malaysia (SAFM) has called on the government to implement a large-scale sterilisation programme and establish proper shelters to tackle the growing number of stray dogs nationwide.
SAFM president Kalaivanan Ravichandran described this approach as a more humane and effective way to address the stray dog problem.
He condemned the practice of capturing and killing stray dogs, calling it both cruel and ineffective in the long term.
“This method merely postpones the issue without solving its root cause, which is irresponsible pet ownership and poor population control. We need sustainable, compassionate solutions,” he said in a statement on Monday (June 9).
Kalaivanan urged Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming to allocate funding and provide space for NGOs willing to manage the stray dog population responsibly.
“Sterilisation and shelter-based management have proven successful in other countries. They are far more effective and ethical than violent measures, which only worsen the problem,” he added.
SAFM also called for nationwide awareness campaigns to educate the public on responsible pet ownership and humane methods of managing stray animals.
“Only with immediate and committed government support can we resolve this crisis effectively while protecting both human and animal lives,” Kalaivanan said.
This call for action comes amid growing concerns from residents of Kampung Bahagia in Teluk Intan, who have reported a surge in stray dog activity.
The dogs are believed to be scavenging from a nearby rubbish disposal site and have been roaming in large packs, especially at night, causing fear and sanitation issues.
Reported incidents include an attempted attack on a resident and the killing of free-range chickens.
Locals are also worried about potential health risks such as rabies and the mess created by dogs dragging rubbish into homes and public spaces.
They are urging authorities to intervene before the situation worsens.
Kalaivanan said that proactive and humane management is crucial to prevent further conflicts between humans and animals.
“Minister, the time to act is now. Let us work together to create a safer, cleaner, and more compassionate community,” he said.
