By Nityaasini Sivagami

LANGKAWI, 4 July 2025: We are watching. We are speaking out. And we will fight for those who cannot speak for themselves. Stray animals are not trash. They feel pain, they feel fear, and they feel love. They deserve compassion—not death.

In a deeply distressing incident that has shocked animal lovers and volunteers across Malaysia, 12 resident dogs at a Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) facility in Langkawi were found dead yesterday, victims of suspected poisoning.

The TNR kennel, operated in collaboration with the local municipal council, serves a critical role in managing the stray dog population through humane methods. While most of the dogs are released after neutering, some—too gentle or vulnerable to survive the streets—are given permanent refuge at the shelter. For many, this kennel was their safe haven. Instead, it became the site of their tragic end.

“These dogs were friendly, loving, and trusted humans. They didn’t deserve this cruel fate,” said one heartbroken volunteer. “They died in pain. We failed to protect them from this evil.”

This incident highlights a persistent issue of cruelty toward stray animals. Despite efforts by shelters, volunteers, and government partnerships to address overpopulation ethically, many still view strays as pests, leading to deliberate harm and killings.

“It’s not just about these 12 dogs,” the shelter added. “It’s about every animal that suffers simply for existing. The only crime these dogs committed was being born on the streets.”

The shelter is awaiting a toxicology report to confirm the exact cause of death. They vow to continue fighting for the voiceless and ensuring that the dogs who died are not forgotten.

“We will not let them die in vain,” TNR said. “Their suffering must awaken others. This must stop.”

Source: [Facebook] Malaysia Homeless Animal Movement