THE recent incident in which a dog called Rocky was abused and killed has stirred outrage, sadness, and difficult conversations across Malaysia (“Death of Rocky: Cruelty against animals unacceptable, says Tengku Permaisuri Selangor”, The Star, Aug 1; online at bit.ly/3TBKA9E). While investigations and legal action are necessary when cruelty occurs, to me this incident reinforces my belief that compassion cannot be legislated. It must be nurtured.
Our treatment of animals reflects our values as human beings. Compassion towards animals is not simply about preventing abuse; it is about recognising that every living creature has the capacity to feel pain, fear, comfort, and affection. Animals deserve kindness not because the law demands it, but because our humanity should.
Many countries have successfully integrated animal welfare into everyday life by fostering empathy from a young age.
In nations such as Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland, respect for animals is woven into education, community programmes, and public consciousness. Schools often introduce children to responsible pet ownership, wildlife conservation, and humane treatment of animals through classroom activities and community initiatives. The objective is not merely to produce responsible pet owners, but to cultivate compassionate citizens who understand that every life deserves dignity and care.
Research has consistently shown that children who are taught empathy towards animals often develop stronger emotional intelligence, greater compassion for others, and a heightened sense of social responsibility. Learning to care for an animal teaches patience, accountability, kindness, and respect – qualities that naturally extend to human relationships.
Animal welfare is also closely linked to community wellbeing. Cities that promote responsible pet ownership, support adoption programmes, and create animal- friendly public spaces often experience stronger community engagement and civic pride. Compassion becomes part of the culture rather than merely a response to tragedy.
Having championed an animal welfare event at a university for the past 10 years, I have witnessed firsthand how education can transform perspectives. What began as an initiative to raise awareness has evolved into a platform where students learn about responsible pet ownership, adoption, animal rescue, and the importance of coexisting harmoniously with the animals that share our world.
Many students who once feared or misunderstood stray animals now volunteer at shelters, support adoption drives, and advocate for humane treatment. These experiences demonstrate that compassion can indeed be taught.
Ultimately, the discussion surrounding Rocky should not end with public outrage or calls for harsher punishment. It should inspire a national conversation about who we are and the values we choose to uphold.
If we aspire to build a society defined by kindness, we must begin by teaching compassion where it matters most: at home, in our schools, and within our communities. When we learn to care for the most vulnerable among us, regardless of whether they walk on two legs or four, we build a nation that is not only stronger but also more humane,
The words attributed to Mahatma Gandhi – that the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way it treats its animals – remain as relevant today as ever. The measure of a nation is found not in its wealth or achievements, but in the compassion it extends to those who have no voice.
R. MURALI RAJARATENAM
Bangsar Park, Kuala Lumpur
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