Current system of stray animal management not working

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

A toddler was attacked by stray dogs in Batu Pahat, sparking renewed calls from experts and advocates for a thorough review of Malaysia’s existing stray animal control policies. Critics argue that current catch-and-cull methods fail to address root causes like breeding and abandonment, urging a shift toward data-driven population management and legislative reform to enhance public safety and animal welfare.

A recent attack on a toddler by stray dogs in Batu Pahat has reignited public debate on Malaysia’s approach to managing stray animals, with experts and advocates calling for a reassessment of current policies. The incident, which occurred on September 5, has highlighted ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of existing methods to control stray animal populations nationwide.

Malaysia currently lacks a unified national policy dedicated to stray animal management. Responsibility is shared among the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), state authorities, and local municipalities, operating under the framework of the Animal Welfare Act 2015. Predominantly, local agencies rely on a catch-and-impound or catch-and-cull strategy to reduce stray numbers. However, critics argue that this approach has failed to address the underlying causes contributing to the persistent stray population.

Choong Koon Yean, president of the International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals, emphasized that while immediate removal of stray dogs may provide short-term relief, it does not prevent new animals from entering the streets. Factors such as abandonment, uncontrolled breeding, irresponsible pet ownership, and gaps in law enforcement continue to fuel the cycle. Choong called for a broader, more integrated strategy that goes beyond animal catching to include population management rooted in data, science, and preventive measures.

“Stray animal management is not simply an animal-catching problem. It is a population-management problem,” Choong stated. She underscored the need for sterilisation programs, identification systems, responsible ownership, effective enforcement, and legislative reforms, backed by long-term planning and public education.

The current catch-and-cull model, according to advocates, has been used for decades without substantially reducing the stray population or improving public safety. They argue that addressing the root causes is essential to break this cycle. Furthermore, while public safety remains paramount, the continued recurrence of incidents involving stray animals suggests that existing approaches may be inadequate.

Choong urged government agencies, non-governmental organizations, veterinarians, academics, and practitioners to collaborate and share expertise to develop evidence-based, effective solutions. She highlighted the importance of analyzing what strategies have succeeded in other countries and adapting best practices that suit Malaysia’s context.

The call for reform comes amid increasing public concern over safety and animal welfare. Advocates say a renewed focus on comprehensive population management can protect both people and animals, offering a sustainable resolution to a problem that has persisted for years across Malaysia’s urban and rural areas.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.