By S. Param
The recent announcement by PM, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that Malaysians aged 18 and above will receive cash assistance of RM 100 credited directly to their Mykad via the SARA system took everyone by surprise.
Although it’s a token sum, it will definitely cheer up many hundreds of thousands of young and old on Merdeka Day.
This move, apart from easing the rising cost of living of the citizens, will also help boost the related economic activities especially of grocery marts, supermarkets and other associated outlets.
In welcoming the cash token of appreciation in conjunction with Merdeka Day celebrations on 31st August, I on behalf of animal lovers in the country appeal to the Prime Minister to consider including purchases of pet food and medicines with the special RM 100 cash.
Those who are rich and well to do who may not use this cash can use this amount to purchase pet food and medicines to be donated to animal shelters. Many animal shelters are facing financial difficulties to cater for the homeless cats and dogs under their care.
The government should consider allocating part of unspent funds at the end of the year to organise animal welfare activities in the country.
Alternatively the government should consider allocating funds/grants in the annual budget announcement to help out animal welfare NGOs in overcoming their financial constraints.
Many animal shelters in the country are funded via public donation; they are closing down due to lack of funds. The rise in cost of living has somewhat affected public donations in a big way
The closing down of animal shelters invariably gives rise to other issues related to strays. This invariably leads to a conflict among the public and the local council stray management authorities.
The recent issue of stray dogs allegedly buried alive in Ipoh has riled the public. The viral video of the brutal killing of strays is tarnishing the good image of the country globally.
On behalf of animal lovers I appeal to the government to seriously consider the welfare of the homeless cats and dogs living in our environment by allocating special annual grants for animal shelters run by volunteers.
Animals have intrinsic value they deserved to be treated with compassion and respect regardless of their utility to humans
