The howls and yelps of canines with gunshot wounds before perishing linger. The recent alleged shooting of stray dogs at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is deeply troubling and must be addressed without delay. Acts of animal cruelty, particularly on university grounds, have no place in a civilised and compassionate society. With such incidents appearing more frequently within institutions of higher learning where young minds are trained and expected to gain knowledge to contribute towards the betterment of society, we must take a clear stand to prevent cruelty from becoming a dangerous and desensitising trend.

When animal activist groups claimed that UPM killed dogs and puppies on its campus, the university’s response failed to provide the reassurance that both students and the public expected. Environmental NGO, the Association for the Protection of the Natural Heritage of Malaysia (Peka), alleged that UPM had hired a company to cull stray dogs at a rate of RM400 per animal. In response, UPM announced the formation of an internal committee to investigate the claim, saying it aimed to “maintain balance” between campus safety and animal welfare while protecting the university’s reputation. However, such statements do little to comfort those who seek accountability. The act of killing animals cannot be justified as maintaining balance, it is an ethical breach that must be taken seriously.

Firearms not the way to go on campus
The newly formed committee’s probe must therefore be transparent, impartial, and open to public scrutiny. Universities are not only centres of knowledge but also examples of social responsibility. By resorting to inhumane methods such as culling, especially through the use of firearms, they send a chilling and wrong message to students about problem-solving, empathy, and respect for life. There are more effective and humane alternatives available, such as trap–neuter–release programmes, collaboration with animal welfare groups, and structured campus adoption initiatives.

Impact on campus students
Animal cruelty also raises serious concerns about campus safety and mental wellbeing. These acts of violence could cause distress among students, especially those living on campus. Universities should foster safe and compassionate environments that reflect the values of humanity, not fear or disregard for life.

As highlighted by Peka, Section 30 of the Animal Welfare Act strictly prohibits the use of firearms to kill animals without special permission. The Veterinary Services Department and law enforcement authorities must conduct a full investigation into the alleged killings. Cruelty must never be tolerated or justified in the name of safety. Upholding compassion is not only a reflection of good governance, but also of who we are as a Malaysian society.

Saw Yee Fung
MCA Youth Secretary General

8 October 2025

-MCA Comm-