Throughout the years, I have been consistently calling for the adoption of humane stray animal management methods such as TNVRM, as I believe our approach to stray population management must go beyond simply catching and culling when it possesses no scientific basis to it whatsoever.
The reality is that catch-and-cull alone does not address the root causes of the problem at all, including reproduction, abandonment issues, irresponsible ownership, vaccination, identification and community management. Without addressing these issues systematically, we risk dealing with the same problem repeatedly, no matter how many strays we set out to cull.
What Malaysia needs is a coordinated, data-driven and science-backed ecosystem where the government, local authorities, animal welfare organisations, veterinarians, NGOs and communities can work together towards measurable and sustainable outcomes.
This is where initiatives such as #ProjekTogetherBoleh are important. They demonstrate that collaboration between government, civil society and communities can move beyond discussions and translate ideas into practical action on the ground.
I also believe that if we would like to strengthen animal welfare as a community, on top of introducing better policies, ensuring that existing laws are properly enforced and that acts of cruelty are met with appropriate accountability should also be prioritised. The recent case of Rocky stands as a painful and clear evidence that further reflects the importance of this matter. Therefore, stronger legislation, effective enforcement and humane population management must go hand in hand, we must walk the talk and ensure that these laws translate into actions and not just empty words on a piece of paper.
A special thank you to Sue Ann Kong, founder of #ExecuteAWA, and her dedicated team for their leadership and commitment in pushing this conversation forward. Your work in bringing together communities, stakeholders and practical solutions shows that civil society can be an important partner in helping government turn good policies into meaningful outcomes.
I am proud to stand with those working towards a Malaysia where animal welfare is treated with the professionalism, compassion and integrity it deserves.
Together, we can build a more humane, responsible and sustainable positive ecosystem for both our communities and our voiceless companions.