KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal to require dog owners to take up minimum liability insurance will be referred to state authorities for consideration, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Housing and Local Government Minister said the move, suggested by Mohd Hasnizan Harun (PN-Hulu Selangor), was good in principle as it promotes social responsibility among pet owners and could help address issues involving stray and privately owned dogs that are difficult to control.
“The proposal for dog owners to take up minimum liability insurance is commendable from the perspective of social responsibility. The ministry will forward the suggestion to the state authorities for their due consideration,” he said when winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2026 (Budget 2026) in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (Oct 29).
Nga said the ministry was mindful of problems caused by stray animals such as dogs, cats and livestock, including cows and buffaloes that roam freely in public areas, creating safety and hygiene concerns.
“These issues have caused public disturbance, safety risks and affected community well-being,” he said.
Currently, local authorities manage and control stray animals under the By-Laws on Dog Licensing and By-Laws on Livestock and Stray Animal Licensing, which empower them to take enforcement action against unlicensed animals or those roaming in public spaces.
To enhance management, councils have also implemented the Trap, Reclaim, Rehome and Dispose (TRRD) approach, which covers the capture, return, adoption, and humane disposal of strays.
Nga said the Manjung Municipal Council (MP Manjung) has been effective in tackling roaming livestock through enforcement measures such as seizure, detention, and auctioning of animals due to owners’ negligence.
“These measures are necessary to ensure public safety, hygiene, and community well-being,” he added.
