By Shamz Johan
SUBANG JAYA, June 12 — The state government will work with the local authorities and the private sector to establish a centre, or First Shelter, for stray animals like dogs and cats.
Taking a leaf from developed countries, state executive councillor for local government Ng Sze Han said the centre will feature various facilities, including care for strays, pet shops, and an information centre.
“This local centre or First Shelter is a concept from abroad, popular in Europe, where there are animal intake centres.
“It will also include pet-friendly hotels and cafes, clinics and veterinary services, as well as a dog and cat park,” he said.
Speaking at a press conference at Empire Hotel earlier today, Ng said the public ought to be made aware of and educated on the importance of caring for animal welfare, including stray animals.
“The proposal is also supported by NGOs and animal lover communities. We must all be aware that animals have the right to protection,” he said.
Ng added that a location in Sepang has been identified for the construction of a cat park, which is currently still under discussion.
Earlier, he officiated the Selangor Stray Dog Management Forum 2023, organised by the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) and the Selangor Economic Planning Unit.
During the forum, Subang Jaya Mayor Mohd Fauzi Mohd Yatim said it is an opportunity for government agencies, NGOs, and members of the public to share ideas on strengthening the steps and methods of controlling stray dogs by the local authorities.
“As of last month, MBSJ received 579 complaints related to stray dogs, which is the highest number of complaints overall.
“The forum was conducted to gather perspectives not only from the local authorities, but also from NGOs, communities, and relevant agencies involved in managing stray dogs, like the Department of Veterinary Services,” he said.
Mohd Fauzi said managing stray dogs is a crucial issue, given the risks of infectious diseases they pose like rabies, as well as the frequent occurrence of misunderstandings between local authorities, the community, NGOs, and animal lovers.
In addition, the survey conducted by MBSJ in collaboration with other local authorities, NGOs, animal shelters, residential communities, and the public identified several key challenges, including controlling the population of stray dogs and managing the welfare of these animals.
Several proposals were made to encourage pet adoption programmes for stray dogs and cats at care and management centres.
“We hope to achieve the best resolution in line with MBSJ’s mission to create and manage a city with a prosperous, conducive, and inclusive environment for all and sundry,” he said.
Asides from Ng and Mohd Fauzi, other dignitaries at the forum included the Deputy Secretary of State (Development) cum UPEN director Datuk Johary Anuar, Subang Jaya Deputy Mayor Mohd Zulkurnain Che Ali, and the council’s Health Department Director Dr Roslan Mohamed Hussin.
MBSJ also received a donation of dog trapping nets from the Sabak Bernam District Council, as a symbolic gesture during the event.
