Peka Accuses Upm Of Contracting Firm To Kill Stray Dogs

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An environmental NGO has accused Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) of unlawful dog killings, claiming that the education institute had paid a cleaning company to kill the animals.
The Organisation for the Preservation of National Heritage Malaysia (Peka) alleged that UPM had engaged a Sentul-based service company to “kill” dogs at a rate of RM400 per animal. 
“Evidence confirms that at least 15 dogs were killed by (the company) through shooting. Photographic evidence also substantiates these acts,” Peka president Rajesh Nagarajan said in a statement today.
When contacted, an employee with the company, which is named in a purported November 2024 invoice sent to UPM for the “catching and disposal of stray dogs,” declined to comment on the matter and instead directed queries to UPM.
While the invoice does not state the manner in which the dogs were disposed of, the document featured several stamps seemingly from UPM authorities.
Malaysiakini’s checks on the company also revealed little to no online presence, except for an address and an office contact number.
‘Shooting violates several laws’
Rajesh stressed that the said killings constitute a clear violation of Section 29 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which prohibits causing unnecessary pain, suffering, or death to animals. 
He added that the killings go against Section 30(1) of the legislation, which bars the killing of dogs, cats, or other designated animals by shooting with firearms, except when authorised by the veterinary authority for emergency situations or disease control.
“The use of firearms without proper licences constitutes further potential offences under the Arms Act 1960 and/or the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971,” he asserted.
Besides an immediate halt to all animal killings by UPM, Rajesh said Peka is also calling for the police and the Veterinary Services Department to launch an investigation into UPM and the company. 
The Higher Education Ministry, he added, should also be involved in enforcing the law without delay in order to hold all perpetrators fully accountable.
Malaysiakini has contacted UPM about the allegations and is awaiting a response.
- Mkini

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