BANDAR Kuching MP and DAP Youth chief Dr Kelvin Yii has urged Sarawak leaders to emulate the example of Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin and be more compassionate and kind towards animals and strays.
He said the state government must improve its laws to criminalise cruelties towards animals by adopting the federal-level Animal Welfare Act 2015.
Speaking after visiting the Humane Animal Society for Sarawak animal shelter in Kuching, he said the Tengku Permaisuri Selangor has shown by example how everyone should treat animals.
“The humane treatment of animals, including strays, must be principles incorporated in every community and it is time the national Animal Welfare Act 2015 be extended to Sarawak and Sabah,” he said.
Dr Yii praised the Tengku Permaisuri Selangor for coming forth to publicly defend voiceless animals.
He said her kindness is a shining example that everyone must follow, including state leaders.
On April 13, a renowned social activist had also said cruelties towards animals cannot be allowed to persist in any state or country that proclaims itself to be developed and civilised.
Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said cruelties towards animals, whether inflicted by people or authorities, cannot be tolerated or allowed to persist.
He said the humane treatment of animals is a fundamental aspect of a modern, developed society.
“If we cannot treat animals with kindness, how can we claim to be developed?
“The greatness of a state can be judged by the way it treats its animals,” said Lee.
Lee said laws must be in place to allow non- governmental bodies greater power to investigate and act against those committing cruelties towards animals. – The Vibes, April 23, 2024