LETTER | Amid rising cases of stray animal mistreatment, public frustration, and escalating human-stray conflict, including injuries and fatalities, we urge the government to establish a National Stray Animal Policy.

This policy is critical not only for the welfare of stray animals but also for addressing the broader socio-economic and ethical implications of stray overpopulation.

We stress that the current reactive approach is marked by ineffective and inhumane “catch and kill” methods and has failed to resolve the crisis.

Instead, the government must recognise stray overpopulation as a national issue that requires structured, humane, and sustainable solutions.

Here are key policy recommendations:

Trap-neuter-vaccinate-release-manage programme

The government must officially implement trap-neuter-vaccinate-release-manage (TNVRM) policies in collaboration with NGOs and experts.

This approach - focused on neutering, vaccinating, and responsibly managing strays—has been proven globally to reduce stray populations over time while balancing animal welfare and public safety.

Dedicated budget for humane stray management

Resources currently used for ineffective and cruel “catch and kill” operations should be reallocated toward large-scale neutering initiatives and TNVRM programmes.

Sustainable solutions require funding and commitment from the authorities.

Promote adoption over sale of animals

Policies should encourage adoption programmes and discourage commercial breeding and animal sales.

Foster multi-stakeholder collaboration

The government must facilitate partnerships between NGOs, corporations (via donations and tax incentives), institutions, and grassroots organisations to strengthen animal welfare efforts nationwide.

Strengthen enforcement of Animal Welfare Act

Authorities should increase enforcement capacity by recruiting dedicated animal welfare officers to oversee ethical and effective stray population management.

Ensuring compliance with the Animal Welfare Act is essential to ending cruelty and mismanagement.

Hence, the coalition urges the government to take decisive action now before the situation worsens. Stray overpopulation is not just an animal issue - it is a human, societal, and ethical concern.

A long-term structured National Stray Animal Policy will not only protect strays' welfare but also create safer, healthier and more civilised communities for all Malaysians.

The statement was signed by 25 animal-rights NGOs.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.