Recent reports have raised concerns over a disturbing series of incidents at the University of Malaya (UM), where the carcasses of animals were discovered across various locations on campus [1]. Should the public be alarmed by this? Perhaps, given that most of these animals did not die from natural causes; rather, they were subjected to unusual and suspicious circumstances. Witnesses and veterinarians have reported signs of abuse, including dismemberment and removal of internal organs [2].
While ongoing investigations seek to uncover the truth behind these deaths, it is crucial to consider to the broader issue of animal cruelty. This is where the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (“The Act”) plays a key role.
Under Section 29(1)(a) of The Act, it is a criminal offence for anyone to cruelly beat, kick, overload, torture, or terrorize animals [3]. Section 29(1)(h) further provides that anyone who mutilates any animal in any manner is also committing an offence [4], while Section 29(1)(e) prohibits any act that unreasonably unnecessary pain or suffering to the animal [5].
In addition to these acts of violence, cruelty also includes failure to provide adequate food, and the abandonment of animals, as outlined in Section 29(1)(d) [6]. Convictions under this section carry penalties of a fine ranging from RM20,000 to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both [7]. Exceptions are made if such actions are permitted by lawful authority or considered acceptable under veterinary management procedures [8].
A recent case that highlights the importance of animal protection laws is Mohd Nizam Bin Itam v. Public Prosecutor [9], where the accused was charged under the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971 and Penal Code for unlawful possession of firearms and criminal intimidation.
In this case, the accused killed a dog belonging to the witnesses. Although the charges were related to firearms and criminal intimidation, the incident drew attention to the need for stronger enforcement of animal protection laws. Had the accused in that case been charged with sections under the Animal Welfare Act 2015, namely Section 30, it is very likely that he would have been found guilty.
To date, many cases of animal abuse remain unreported or unaddressed, leaving animals vulnerable to harm. It is time for us to pay closer attention to our surroundings and adopt a proactive approach to safeguard the protection and well-being of all animals. This includes reporting to the authorities if you suspect or witness animal cruelty.
Returning to the situation at UM, the author is happy to note that the investigation eventually revealed that the cause of these gruesome killings has been attributed to a group of stray dogs, rather than human intervention [10]. While this outcome resolves the specific circumstances of the incidents, it should not diminish the urgency of addressing the broader issue of animal cruelty.
[1] https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3291998/gruesome-deaths-cats-malaysian-campus-spark-outrage-animal-lovers?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article
[2] https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/police-investigates-gruesome-killings-of-cats-and-dog-at-um-KD13459506
[3] Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[4] Section 29(1)(h) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[5] Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[6] Section 29(1)(d) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[7] Section 29 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[8] Section 29(2) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015
[9] [2021] MLJU 743
[10] https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/01/05/um-cat-deaths-continue-into-the-weekend-kl-cops-attribute-to-dog-attack-no-investigation-for-latest-case/162094
About the Author
Debbie Moo Jie Ying is a Pupil-in-Chambers of XK Law. She graduated from University of London. Debbie enjoys travelling and spending her time dancing away her stress during her leisure time.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation, is not legal advice, and is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice. You should not act upon any such information without first seeking qualified professional counsel on your specific matter
