(Kuching, 21st) In response to the horrific incident of cat dismemberment on the Sarawak University campus, Kuching MP Julian Tan believes the investigation must be more transparent, allowing other parties to participate in the investigation and being open to contact and dialogue with NGOs and relevant interest groups.
Undeniably, the incident is shocking and worrying, especially since the cat was found dismembered with clean and skillful methods, naturally leading to questions about such cruel actions.
He also noted the official statement from UNIMAS, concluding from the university’s internal investigation, including witness testimony and CCTV footage, that the cat’s death was caused by a tomcat.
Undeniably, the incident is shocking and worrying, especially since the cat was found dismembered with clean and skillful methods, naturally leading to questions about such cruel actions.
He also noted the official statement from UNIMAS, concluding from the university’s internal investigation, including witness testimony and CCTV footage, that the cat’s death was caused by a tomcat.
“Like many animal lovers, I express doubts about the university’s explanation. If the investigation process lacks transparency, it will only weaken the public’s trust in the university.”
The incident not only drew public attention but veterinarians also suspect a high likelihood of human-induced cat abuse. Declaring it as animal-inflicted without detailed forensic examination, and even if killed by a tomcat, the university needs to provide evidence to eliminate public suspicion.
Therefore, he urges UNIMAS to transparently share all evidence with relevant authorities, including:
1) Presenting all evidence, including CCTV footage and witness testimonies, for independent investigation;
2) Allowing external veterinary experts and authorities to conduct an autopsy on the cat, despite it being properly buried by the university;
3) Collaborating with independent animal welfare organizations to review the case and make necessary recommendations to prevent similar incidents.
This incident also highlights Sarawak’s urgent need to reform and strengthen the existing animal welfare legal framework. Unlike Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, which are governed under the Malaysian Animal Welfare Act 2015, Sarawak operates under its own ordinance, lacking adequate enforcement mechanisms and punishment measures for animal abuse.
In light of this, he calls on the Sarawak government to:
1) Formulate and implement comprehensive animal welfare laws that meet or exceed the standards of the Animal Welfare Act 2015;
2) Strengthen cooperation between law enforcement, local authorities, and NGO animal rights organizations to raise public awareness and enhance protection for all animals in Sarawak.
The way a society treats animals reflects its values and morals. Ignoring animal cruelty only sends a dangerous message to society. As representatives and citizens, we are responsible for ensuring justice is served, not just for these vulnerable animals but for the safety and dignity of the entire community.
Julian Tan states he will stand with the people of Sarawak and all animal lovers, seeking transparency and justice in response to this incident. Additionally, he will bring the matter through necessary channels until it is properly resolved.
The incident not only drew public attention but veterinarians also suspect a high likelihood of human-induced cat abuse. Declaring it as animal-inflicted without detailed forensic examination, and even if killed by a tomcat, the university needs to provide evidence to eliminate public suspicion.
Therefore, he urges UNIMAS to transparently share all evidence with relevant authorities, including:
1) Presenting all evidence, including CCTV footage and witness testimonies, for independent investigation;
2) Allowing external veterinary experts and authorities to conduct an autopsy on the cat, despite it being properly buried by the university;
3) Collaborating with independent animal welfare organizations to review the case and make necessary recommendations to prevent similar incidents.
This incident also highlights Sarawak’s urgent need to reform and strengthen the existing animal welfare legal framework. Unlike Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, which are governed under the Malaysian Animal Welfare Act 2015, Sarawak operates under its own ordinance, lacking adequate enforcement mechanisms and punishment measures for animal abuse.
In light of this, he calls on the Sarawak government to:
1) Formulate and implement comprehensive animal welfare laws that meet or exceed the standards of the Animal Welfare Act 2015;
2) Strengthen cooperation between law enforcement, local authorities, and NGO animal rights organizations to raise public awareness and enhance protection for all animals in Sarawak.
The way a society treats animals reflects its values and morals. Ignoring animal cruelty only sends a dangerous message to society. As representatives and citizens, we are responsible for ensuring justice is served, not just for these vulnerable animals but for the safety and dignity of the entire community.
Julian Tan states he will stand with the people of Sarawak and all animal lovers, seeking transparency and justice in response to this incident. Additionally, he will bring the matter through necessary channels until it is properly resolved.