IPOH: Perak will launch the Feeder Mapping Programme as its next phase for managing stray dogs on Dec 28, says Sandrea Ng.
The state local government committee chairman said the programme aims to identify locations where strays are fed, enabling more effective neutering, monitoring and intervention plans.
The initiative, which will begin following the closure of the Perak Pawsitive project, is intended to ensure stray management efforts are data-driven and to help control the stray dog population.
“The programme is open to all community feeders, non-governmental organisations, volunteers and individuals involved in managing stray animal welfare.
"We want to collect information about all feeders in the community so they can help us monitor the situation on the ground,” she said at a press conference at the Perak Darul Ridzuan building here on Monday (Dec 15).
To encourage participation, a neutering subsidy coupon worth RM50 will be given to those attending the briefing on the same day.
Ng said a digital application for the programme will also be introduced, allowing authorities to strengthen coordination of data and improve cooperation between agencies and the community. During the briefing, feeders will be advised on their responsibilities, including cleaning up after feeding strays and reporting issues.
“We want to inform feeders about their responsibilities and get in touch to help with issues near their locations,” she added.
On the proposal to tag pets with microchips to deter abandonment, Ng said it is still being studied and may be included in the bylaw for dog licences, pending review by the state legal department.
Separately, Ipoh mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah said the Ipoh City Council has received a notice for an originating summons from the Ipoh Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA).
“We have retained a lawyer for this. The mention and case management will be on Dec 22,” he said.
“We cannot comment much to avoid a trial by the media,” he added.
On Friday (Dec 12), ISPCA president Ricky Soong said the organisation has filed the originating summons against the city council and state government, seeking High Court declarations over the legality of the disposal of dogs shown in a video that surfaced in July.
