SHAH ALAM, Aug 3 — The state government will continue taking action to address the issue of stray dogs that may pose a threat to public safety, but enforcement must be carried out prudently and without cruelty.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said they are committed to striking a balance between safeguarding animal welfare and protecting public safety.
"This is the balance that must be achieved. Her Royal Highness the Tengku Permaisuri has also expressed concern over this issue.
"So there is no need for anger. Some people are concerned about animal welfare, while others are focused on human welfare. We will continue taking action, particularly against stray dogs.
"We will continue our enforcement efforts because, ultimately, the government must act in the public interest. This issue arises whenever certain measures are taken, but those measures must never be cruel or fail to reflect humanitarian values," he said.
Amirudin was speaking to the media after attending the Selangor Civil Service Assembly and the launch of the 2026 state-level 'Fly the Jalur Gemilang' campaign at the State Secretariat Building today.
He added that the authorities have been carrying out action against stray animals continuously, and it is therefore unfair to claim that the state government has taken no action.
Amirudin also urged all parties not to be selective in making accusations regarding the issue of stray dogs in Selangor.
Enforcement operations will continue to reduce safety risks posed by stray animals roaming in public areas, but the approach must remain balanced and humane.
"Action is indeed being taken. Some parties claim we are acting cruelly, while others say we are not taking any action at all.
"What I am emphasising is the need for balance. We must take action while also preventing incidents involving stray dogs or other roaming animals that could threaten public safety.
"The Port Klang state assemblyman also raised this matter during the State Legislative Assembly sitting. It is not something that has gone unaddressed, so do not be selective," he said.
Previously, the Royal Klang City Council said that its operation to capture stray dogs at Taman Teluk Gedung Indah on Thursday (July 30) was conducted in accordance with the standard operating procedures and guidelines set by the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
Meanwhile, the Selangor Veterinary Services Department has assured that its investigation into the death of a dog during the stray animal operation at Taman Teluk Gedung Indah will be carried out thoroughly, fairly, and without prejudice to any party.
On Saturday (August 1), the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin expressed sadness, disappointment and anger over the continued incidents of cruelty towards pets and stray animals, particularly dogs and cats, which have recently gone viral.
Istana Alam Shah also announced that Her Royal Highness had called on the federal government to review the penalties under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 so that punishments for animal cruelty offenders will be strengthened and enforced more consistently.
