The couple feeding Setiawangsa’s forgotten cats

Shafira Azlan, a 40-year-old woman, dedicates her daily life to caring for a colony of stray cats in Setiawangsa, Kuala Lumpur. The act of feeding these animals began with her rescue pets at home, and eventually expanded to the stray cats she encountered outside. Over the past five years, about 30 cats have lived in the roadside colony, with new arrivals constantly joining their group.

The couple feeds the cats three times a day, starting at 6:30am, and Shafira also takes care of sick or injured cats, arranges their treatment and boarding, finds adoptive homes, and performs trap-neuter-return work. Despite the expenses, food costs between RM600 and RM800 a month, and medical treatment can run into thousands depending on a cat's condition.

While some residents object to their efforts, Shafira remains focused on ensuring the cats have enough to eat, ignoring the criticism. Her husband shares the daily feeding duties, helping sustain this commitment that started five years ago. Shafira's family has been involved in this responsibility, with her son, now 18, joining them on their morning feeding rounds before school.

Among the most memorable rescues were two female cats: one heavily pregnant and the other found with newborn kittens. Both were eventually adopted after receiving treatment and waiting for a permanent home. Caring for strays has also influenced Shafira's perspective on life, affecting her spending habits and priorities. She hopes to continue her efforts as long as she has the energy and ability.