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Campaign aims to raise RM6,000 monthly for food and temporary shelter while a permanent sanctuary is being built
FOR more than four years, the streets of Jinjang have been home not just to dozens of stray dogs, but also to one woman who never stopped caring for them.
Known to many simply as Aunty Janaki, the former nurse has spent years feeding and looking after more than 60 street dogs around the Kuala Lumpur neighbourhood. Today, however, the animals she considers family are in urgent need of public support following their relocation after the land they once occupied was earmarked for redevelopment.
The Pawfund for Janaki campaign, led by the non-governmental organisation, Persatuan Pembelaan Hak Anjing Jalanan Yang Tersisih Selangor (Pawtarian), is appealing to Malaysians to help raise RM6,000 each month to cover boarding and food costs for 62 displaced dogs while a permanent home is being prepared.
For Janaki, caring for the dogs has become part of her daily life.
“These dogs aren’t strays to me. They’re friends who found me when no one else would stop to see them. Every morning they would wait, and every evening they trusted I would return. I can’t break that promise, even if they are now gone from my side,” she said.
She said the dogs have also given her comfort and purpose over the years.
“They put a smile on my face and grit in my heart even on the toughest days. I’m not sure where or who I would be if not for these dogs. I am forever indebted to them,” she added.
Earlier this year, Janaki learnt the land where many of the dogs lived would be redeveloped. With limited time to act, the animals faced the possibility of being seized or euthanised if they remained.
The rescue effort was made possible with the help of content creator Sidney Rayos Michael and Navwin from Pawtarian, who worked alongside Janaki and members of the public to relocate all 62 dogs to a temporary shelter before redevelopment began.
“I’m not a hero. I’m just someone who refused to look away. We all have a voice, and when we use it together, great things can happen. In this case, animals can get a second chance,” said Sidney.
While the dogs are now safe, the challenge has shifted to ensuring they remain cared for. Although the temporary shelter operators have offered significantly reduced boarding rates, the team still needs approximately RM6,000 every month to cover food and accommodation, excluding any unexpected veterinary expenses.
After nearly three months of fundraising and coordinating care, organisers said funds are running critically low.
Navwin said the campaign is about more than meeting immediate needs.
“Fundraising is a marathon we can’t afford to stop running. Every ringgit tells these dogs they matter. Hope is built one small act at a time,” he added.
The long-term goal is to relocate the dogs to Pawtarian’s planned 2.1-acre animal sanctuary in Klang, which is expected to house up to 400 dogs, cats and other rescued animals. The project requires RM500,000 to complete and is being funded through public contributions.
According to Navwin, the sanctuary is designed to provide rescued animals with a safe environment, proper medical care and improved welfare.
“Pawfund for Janaki is step one – keeping these dogs safe today. Step two is building a permanent haven where no animal’s future depends on tomorrow’s donations. With the community’s support, we can make that happen,” he noted.
The organisers are encouraging members of the public to contribute whatever they can, noting that even small donations can collectively make a meaningful difference.
Those who wish to support the campaign can donate through Kitafund and help spread awareness by sharing the campaign using the hashtag #PawfundForJanaki.
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