KPKT explores a digital microchip registration system for pet dogs to track ownership, vaccinations and control stray populations more effectively
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government is studying the implementation of an integrated digital registration system for pet dogs using microchip technology.
Deputy Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said the technology, led by the Department of Veterinary Services, aims to streamline the recording of ownership details and monitor animals more efficiently.
“This will allow us to access comprehensive ownership data and the status of each dog,” she told the Dewan Negara.
She said the data would include information on owners, licensing, vaccination, sterilisation, and monitoring records.
Aiman Athirah was responding to a question on whether the government would mandate microchipping for breeding control and empower local authorities to manage stray dogs.
She said capturing, reclaiming, adopting, or handing strays to NGOs, along with humane disposal, are widely practised methods globally to control populations.
The ministry channelled RM180,000 last year and RM130,000 this year to local authorities for stray dog management campaigns.
The campaign aims to strengthen public awareness and foster responsible pet ownership to avoid abandonment.
A total of 37,538 complaints related to stray dog nuisances were received over the past year.
Authorities conducted 15,815 operations and captured 66,264 stray dogs during that period.
Of that number, 19,354 dogs were handed to the DVS, reclaimed by owners, or adopted through a foster programme.
Training was also provided to local authority personnel on ethical equipment use, safe capture techniques, and animal welfare standards. – Bernama
