IPOH, Oct 1 — The sustainable and responsible approach implemented by the Perak State Government through the “Perak Pawsitive Initiative” should serve as a model and good example for strengthening the management of stray animal populations nationwide.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Chan Foong Hin said this integrated effort not only addresses animal welfare but also has the potential to resolve issues concerning public safety, veterinary health, and community harmony.

“Recently, I received a courtesy visit from YB Puan Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, the Perak State Executive Councillor for Housing and Local Government, accompanied by a delegation from the Perak Pawsitive Initiative. They presented the efforts and approaches currently being implemented in Perak to address the issue of stray dogs and cats.

“The efforts and initiatives, which began in 2024, have successfully fostered strategic collaborations among various stakeholders,” he said in a statement today.

Chan added that he appreciates the state government’s plans to strengthen the legal and enforcement framework regarding this issue, including proposals to enact relevant bylaws, mandate microchipping for owned dogs, and construct shelters for stray animals.

“In my view, such an approach is crucial because the issue of stray animals is not merely about animal management; it also impacts public safety, veterinary health, animal welfare, and community harmony,” he said.

Meanwhile, he noted that continuous coordination between the federal and state governments is vital to ensure that the various initiatives being implemented move in tandem towards a clear objective.

This includes ensuring that policies, guidelines, veterinary technical aspects, and animal population management strategies are aligned through close cooperation with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) at both federal and state levels.

Commenting on the Perak Pawsitive Initiative, he stated that 13 neutering sessions have been conducted across the state, covering 1,355 dogs and 1,047 cats, in addition to the issuance of 1,303 dog licenses.

“This approach involves collaboration between NGOs, veterinary clinics, local authorities in Perak, and the Perak State Department of Veterinary Services, with the long-term goal of achieving a “Zero Stray” status in a gradual and sustainable manner,” he said.

The next programme is scheduled for October 17 and 18 at the Teluk Intan Municipal Council (MPTI) Rest House Hall, offering subsidised neutering for dogs and cats, dog licence applications and renewals, as well as free health check-ups and vaccinations. — Bernama