Tengku Permaisuri calls for humane stray dog control measures

In a recent announcement by the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA), plans to capture and euthanize stray dogs in Setia Alam have sparked controversy, drawing criticism from Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.

Expressing her disappointment and dismay, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin voiced her disagreement with the proposed “catch-and-kill” approach, emphasizing her stance against such methods adopted by local authorities. She stressed the need for alternative solutions, advocating for neutering as a humane method of stray population control.

As the patron for the Stray Free Selangor campaign, under the Selangor Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin urged local councils to explore more comprehensive strategies for managing stray animals. She emphasized the importance of community involvement, suggesting collaborations between councils and animal-loving residents to establish shelters for strays within neighborhoods.

Neutering programs highlighted as key solution

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, she referenced the ‘Potong Royong’ neutering program conducted by Selangor SPCA in partnership with various veterinary associations, including Universiti Putra Malaysia’s Veterinary Medicine Faculty, the Malaysian Veterinary Medical Association, and the Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association. Since its inception in March 2023, the program has successfully neutered 1,626 animals.

Furthermore, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin called for a review of the Standard Operating Procedures Governing the Capture and Elimination of Stray Dogs under Local Councils, urging authorities to ensure relevance and alignment with humane practices.

The proposed operation by MBSA has elicited strong reactions from animal welfare advocates. PAWS Animal Welfare Society manager Lim Choon Sun and former lawmaker R. Sivarasa have both appealed for a reconsideration of the culling policy, advocating for the development of a more compassionate approach towards stray animal management.

Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin’s advocacy for humane treatment and proactive measures in managing stray animals underscores the importance of community collaboration and ethical considerations in addressing such issues. As discussions continue, stakeholders hope for a resolution that prioritizes the welfare of stray animals while effectively managing their population.