PETALING JAYA, Apr 17 — Complaints over stray dogs in Petaling Jaya have dropped by nearly half over the past five years, attributed to closer collaboration between the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), dog feeders and animal-related non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
MBPJ councillor Nalina Nair said about 900 complaints were recorded in 2020, adding that joint efforts have since yielded encouraging results.
“When we embark on collaborative efforts, we see positive results,” she said during a recent full board meeting, as reported by The Star.
However, Nalina cautioned that some complaints stem from inappropriate feeding practices.
“While the intention of feeding is noble, it has to be done in the right manner,” she said.
She advised feeders to avoid sensitive locations such as schools, densely populated residential areas and crowded public spaces due to safety and hygiene concerns.
She added that MBPJ recently held a three-hour discussion with feeders and animal welfare groups to streamline feeding practices and improve stray management.
“The discussion looked into matters such as animal feeding and the need to take care of the overall well-being of strays without jeopardising human safety,” she said.
Among the proposals raised were increasing public awareness through infographics at bus stops and addressing the presence of stray dogs at construction sites, which pose risks if left unmanaged.
“At the moment, only pet owners at landed properties can apply for dog licences. Stray dogs in open spaces, construction sites and industrial areas remain unlicensed,” she said.
She added that MBPJ is reviewing ways to expand licensing to such areas, stressing the need for a structured approach.
“We need a clear plan instead of an ad hoc approach, including a timeline, implementation mechanism as well as enforcement and surveillance,” she said.
Meanwhile, MBPJ councillor John Leong said recognising dog feeders is key to improving stray management.
“When the council recognises feeders, there will be proper dialogue and discussions to develop guidelines and a monitoring mechanism,” he said.
Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohamad Zahri Samingon said the council would continue engaging stakeholders.
“We will work together on what was brought up at the meeting and will continue to engage with NGOs and feeders,” he said.
Meanwhile, animal welfare groups have called for expanded dog licensing to include locations such as construction sites and shoplots, along with stricter requirements for vaccination and neutering.
They also stressed the need for humane management approaches and proper planning to ensure stray dogs are not abandoned, especially after construction projects are completed.
