Service could strengthen enforcement, improve coordination with NGOs and local councils: Specialist
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia should establish a ministry or department for animal welfare to ensure stronger protection, better coordination and more compassionate public policies for animals, said Ohana Vet Clinic and Surgery medical director Dr Jawahir Abdullah.
Animal welfare issues fall under the Veterinary Services Department, which also oversees livestock, food security and disease control.
Jawahir, better known as Dr Wawa, said this structure often dilutes the focus on animal protection.
“Right now, animal welfare is managed under the department, which has a very broad portfolio. With so many competing responsibilities, welfare issues could easily be overshadowed.”
She said a specialised body focused solely on animal welfare could strengthen enforcement, improve coordination with NGOs and local councils, and ensure animal protection gets the attention it deserves.
She added that such a body could play a crucial role in driving education and public awareness, shifting the national mindset from reactive cruelty to preventive, compassionate care.
She also said Malaysia’s animal welfare system suffers from overlapping jurisdictions between local councils, the department, NGOs and independent rescuers, which often leads to confusion and inefficiency.
“Councils handle stray management, the department looks at cruelty cases and licensing, but both rely heavily on NGOs for rescue and rehabilitation.
“When roles are not clearly defined, cases are delayed, resources get duplicated and animals end up suffering.”
Wawa called for a unified national strategy that brings all stakeholders under one framework with clear accountability and communication channels.
“What we really need is an integrated system and faster, fairer and more effective enforcement that truly protects animals.”
She acknowledged the Animal Welfare Act 2015 as a strong foundation but said its implementation remains inconsistent due to manpower shortages, limited resources and low public awareness.
“The Act provides a solid framework, but its effectiveness depends on capacity, coordination and awareness.
“We have seen progress, but enforcement needs strengthening. With better resources, the Act could make a real, lasting difference.”
She supports the creation of a specialised enforcement unit trained to handle animal cruelty cases, similar to how wildlife officers manage poaching investigations.
“Handling cruelty cases require specialised knowledge in animal behaviour and evidence collection.
“A dedicated unit would respond more quickly and professionally, ensuring investigations are fair, consistent and sensitive,” she said.
She emphasised that such a unit must work closely with the department, local councils and NGOs to avoid duplication and ensure coordinated action rather than competition.
Wawa outlined three key recommendations for establishing a ministry or department for animal welfare:
- Establish a clear structure and mandate to ensure the new body complements the work of the department and local councils without overlapping responsibilities.
- Strengthen enforcement capacity by providing proper training, facilities and resources for officers handling welfare and cruelty cases, ensuring actions taken are effective and compassionate.
- Promote public education and collaboration through greater community awareness, responsible pet ownership and strong partnerships with NGOs and local authorities.
“A successful animal welfare system is one in which animals are protected not just by law, but also by empathy.
“Prevention and education must go hand in hand with enforcement.”
She reminded Malaysians that true animal welfare starts at the individual and community level.
“Laws and enforcement are important, but real change begins with compassion and understanding.
“Every act of kindness, such as adopting, rescuing, reporting cruelty or simply caring responsibly, contributes to a more humane Malaysia.”
She said building a compassionate society reflects the nation’s shared values of care and empathy.
“Together, we can create a Malaysia where animals are treated with the respect they deserve,” she added.
