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IN recent years, there have been over 7,600 reports of abuse and neglect filed with the Department of Veterinary Services.

Among them were the cases of a cat killed in a dryer, a cat thrown from the 15th floor, a dog killed with a firecracker, a dog skinned alive, the starvation of cats, a dog dragged by a motorcyclist and the poisoning of wildlife.

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2015, those convicted of animal cruelty can be fined between RM20,000 and RM100,000 and/or face up to three years imprisonment or both. But courts have only handed down minimal fines.

Besides provisions for cruelty, the law also provides for punishment against neglect, abandonment, cramming and starving stray dogs in a pound without adequate food.

But what we see is a frustrating gap between the Act and its actual enforcement.

(a) Animal Cruelty Is a Serious Crime, not a Minor Offence.

• Animal cruelty reflects a moral failing in society and erodes our collective compassion.

• Numerous international studies show a strong link between animal abuse and violent crimes against humans.

• A society that ignores cruelty to animal’s risks normalising violence in other forms.

(b) When Parliament enacts tough laws, it reflects the will of the people. If courts consistently impose minimal penalties, the deterrent effect is weakened.

(c) Justice must send a clear deterrent message

• Lenient sentences may embolden offenders.

• Animal cruelty cases often involve prolonged suffering — punishments must reflect that seriousness.

• A meaningful sentence serves three purposes:

- Punishment

- Deterrence

- Public confidence in justice

Without adequate sentencing, the law becomes symbolic rather than effective.

(d) Need for Sentencing Guidelines

• Consider developing clear sentencing guidelines for animal cruelty cases.

• Factors to consider:

• Degree of suffering inflicted

• Premeditation

• Repeat offences

• Abuse committed in public view or recorded for social media

• Judges should be guided to treat aggravated cases more severely.

(e) Improve Prosecution and Investigation Standards

• Better training for enforcement officers and prosecutors on handling animal cruelty cases.

• Stronger forensic documentation of injuries.

• Swift case management to avoid delays.

For genuine deterrence, it is necessary to amend the said Act to include a mandatory minimum jail time for aggravated cruelty, among others.

This removes the possibility of a perpetrator walking away with only a small fine, and ensures that the punishment matches the severity of the crime.

Judges and magistrates deal with a massive variety of cases, and animal cruelty is often viewed as a "low-priority" misdemeanour.

The courts should instead view animal abuse as a precursor to social instability or future violence against humans.

Is it possible to establish a national database of individuals convicted of animal cruelty? If so, this registry should be accessible to pet shops, shelters and breeders, legally baring convicted individuals from owning or working with animals for life.

Perhaps we also need to strengthen the Veterinary Services Department which I understand is often understaffed.

Can the police have an Animal Crime Unit to give the enforcers more robust investigative and arrest powers?

Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye

Animal welfare advocate

Kuala Lumpur

The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: Forum@dailyexpress.com.my