SHAH ALAM, Mar 2 — A former council building in Ukay Heights, Ampang is undergoing refurbishment to serve as a shelter for stray cats, with an opening scheduled for July.
The premises, owned by the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ), was previously occupied by a non-governmental organisation before being returned to the council.
MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said RM400,000 has been allocated for the project, which commenced last month, The Star reported.
“The building was previously used by an NGO, which moved out and returned the premises to MPAJ.
“The cat shelter project involves building enclosures and treatment facilities for the animals,” he said, as quoted by the English daily.
Hasrolnizam said the refurbished facility would be able to house up to 50 cats at any one time.
He added that the council would collaborate with animal welfare groups to ensure rescued cats receive proper medical attention and adequate nutrition.
“We will promote the shelter once it’s operational to encourage the public to adopt and give these cats a permanent home.”
Separately, Hasrolnizam said nearly 100 rats were captured during a week-long rodent control campaign in Pandan Jaya earlier this month.
The initiative, launched at Pasar MPAJ Pandan Jaya, offered RM3 for each rat surrendered, whether dead or alive.
Similar operations are being considered in other densely populated residential and commercial areas, including Taman Melawati, Taman Keramat and Pekan Ampang.
Last year, 59 locations across Ampang Jaya were identified for rodent control efforts, with the campaign in Pekan Ampang alone recording the disposal of 101 rats.
