GEORGE TOWN: In an effort towards promoting better animal welfare, Penang Island City Council revealed that it has successfully neutered 6,046 stray and abandoned dogs from 2018 to Jan 31, 2024, as part of its Trap-Neuter-Release (or Rehome) programme (TNR).
As reported by Buletin Mutiara, the initiative, in partnership with the Independent Aid for Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) Penang, was solidified through a memorandum of understanding on Aug 17, 2017. The programme aims to control the population of stray and 'free roaming' dogs on the island, addressing both community health and animal welfare.
An awareness campaign was conducted on Feb 4 in Island Glades to educate the community on the importance of the TNR programme.
In his address, City Council Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran commended the council's commitment to controlling the stray and abandoned dog population.
"This programme is vital to ensure the pets are kept in a healthy state while reducing the risk of animal-related diseases and creating a conducive environment for the residents," he was quoted as saying by Buletin Mutiara.
Rajendran also encouraged pet owners to register and licence their pets, highlighting the affordability and ease of the process through the online portal www.ulesen.mbpp.gov.my.
The event also witnessed a generous contribution of RM50,000 each from Pentamaster and the Penang Island City Council to IAPWA, supporting the TNR programme's operations for 2024.
Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, reflecting on her past role as Penang Island City councillor and sub-committee chairman for Stray and Abandoned Dogs, expressed her pride in the support and collaboration observed during the programme.
"This is the first local council in Peninsular Malaysia to implement the TNR programme. Since its establishment in 2018, we have been a role model for many states. Penang leads once again, continuing the good work of protecting and creating a healthy environment for all, including controlling the population of stray and abandoned dogs," she said.
The event featured various activities, including a mobile dog licensing counter, dog adoption programme, and a colouring contest for children, which saw participation from about 100 children.