Kerajaan digesa ambil tindakan lebih meluas banteras isu anjing liar

Putrajaya MP Radzi Jidin has urged the government to take more comprehensive action to combat the issue of stray dogs in Malaysia, suggesting a model based on a pet-friendly free-standing city. Referencing a report of a two-year-old girl being attacked by stray dogs in Batu Pahat, Johor on Saturday, Radzi pointed out that the state government subsequently announced a stray dog capture operation in the area.

He emphasized that Malaysia cannot continue to handle the stray dog issue through ad-hoc capture operations without a comprehensive plan. The government must implement a standalone action plan involving all relevant government agencies to ensure the country remains free from stray dogs within a few years. This would include amending laws and regulations and ensuring compliance through a dedicated monitoring mechanism, he said via a Facebook update.

The action needs to start in Putrajaya as the government city's stray dog population is lower compared to other urban areas. Two-year-old Nur Haira Watikah Hazimi was reportedly attacked by around five stray dogs outside her home in Sungai Kelambu at 7 a.m. on Saturday. She suffered severe injuries to her head and face and was admitted to Sultanah Nora Ismail Hospital before being transferred to Sultanah Aminah Hospital in Johor Bahru due to her critical condition.

Radzi claimed that during his 20 years living in Australia, he had never seen a stray dog, despite the high pet ownership rate in that country. In the case of an unowned stray dog attacking someone, the owner would face severe consequences including charges and penalties. Radzi said comprehensive law amendments, strict application of application requirements, and high public awareness make cities in Australia free from stray dogs.

Taking into account the high risk of litigation or being sued and charged, dog owners would ensure compliance with established laws.