KUALA LUMPUR: Sweeping reforms to the way local councils manage stray animals are needed following the death of a pet dog, Rocky, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
The animal welfare advocate said the dog's death should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to review existing enforcement practices and strengthen animal welfare protections.
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He said the incident was more than an operational lapse, but reflected a deeper failure to balance enforcement with compassion.
"Cruelty cannot be justified under the guise of routine operations. Standard operating procedures are meant to maintain order and protect welfare, not become a shield for inhumane treatment," he said when contacted on Sunday (Aug 2).
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He said authorities must move beyond assigning blame and instead implement meaningful reforms to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
Lee called for the government to urgently review and strengthen the Animal Welfare Act.
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"The current provisions are insufficient to deter and punish acts of animal cruelty.
"The existing law needs to be re-evaluated and must be strengthened to make it a more effective deterrent against animal cruelty," he added.
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He said the revised Act should provide for more severe penalties for offenders.
He also called for the nationwide adoption of the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) programme, which he described as the only scientifically proven and humane long-term solution for managing stray animal populations.
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"Local councils should also prohibit the use of harsh capture equipment such as wire snares and choking loops, and instead require enforcement personnel and contractors to undergo certified training in humane animal handling under the supervision of the Veterinary Services Department," he said.
Lee further called for clear operational guidelines to prevent the seizure of animals from private residential compounds without proper legal notice and consultation with owners.
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"The establishment of independent oversight committees within every local authority is needed, comprising animal welfare groups, veterinary professionals and legal experts, to investigate complaints and monitor compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
"I also urged the police, the DVS and the local council to conduct a transparent investigation into Rocky's death.
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"The public deserves answers, and those found to have breached animal welfare laws or failed in their duty of care must be held accountable," he said.
He added that the incident should become a turning point in strengthening empathy, accountability and respect for animal welfare in Malaysia, saying no family should have to endure a similar tragedy again.
