IPOH: Over 200 animal lovers braved the rain at Ipoh Padang for a candlelight vigil for 30 dogs that were put to sleep (PTS) at the animal pound centre in Lahat on Monday (July 21).
Organiser Chong Choon Kit, president of Mutts and Mittens, said the vigil on Friday (July 25) was held from 7pm to 8.30pm, with participants observing a two-minute prayer according to their respective faiths to honour the lives lost.
The peaceful gathering drew support from over six animal welfare NGOs, including Noah's Ark Ipoh, Papan Souls, Pertubuhan Pencinta Haiwan Terbiar Kasih Belaian, Sri Sathya Sai Animal Care, PPHG, and Pertubuhan Perlindungan Haiwan Terbiar Ipoh Perak.
Also present were Tronoh assemblyman Steven Tiw Tee Siang.
During the vigil, Chong also shared updates from recent meetings between NGOs and the authorities concerning the welfare and treatment of stray animals.
He explained that the discussion had produced a set of short, medium and long-term goals.
For the short term, Chong said the Ipoh City Council (MBI) encouraged bailout efforts.
Although the official claim period for stray dogs was three days, consideration can be given to those who need more time to raise funds.
He added that NGOs or individuals with shelters, mini-shelters, or ongoing adoption drives who are able to take over strays with expired claim periods from MBI are strongly encouraged to do so.
"NGOs are also to gather feedback from community feeders to prepare for an upcoming town hall session (FOP)," he said.
Chong also said one of the key short-term initiatives is to identify suitable land, particularly in the Papan area or elsewhere, for the establishment of shelters or mini-shelters. The state government has expressed its commitment to gazetting such land for shelter use at a nominal charge.
Looking ahead to medium-term goals, efforts are being made to upgrade the MBI animal pound to meet the standards set by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).
The authorities are also studying the technical and financial implications of implementing a microchipping policy. If approved, the policy could make microchipping mandatory for pet owners starting Jan 1, 2026.
"There are also plans to encourage the formation of independent groups under the "Friends of Pawsitive" (FOP) initiative. Additionally, the state government has agreed to include NGO representatives in the State Animal Welfare Committee.
For the long term, he shared that the coalition of NGOs hopes to advocate for legislative amendments and an ethical review of the current PTS policy. They also aim to support the transformation of NGOs into sustainable social enterprises, with potential initiatives such as pet taxi services to ensure long-term viability.
