Wan Syahmi Hariz Wan Sufazri, who works as a security guard, said he began taking in strays seven years ago, starting with a female cat he named Nana.

Speaking with Bernama, he recalled that he had found the weak and sickly animal in a drain near his old home in Kuala Nerus, and brought it home to nurse it back to health.

“After that, the number of stray cats I cared for kept increasing. Some were brought home by my mother from her workplace; some we found by the roadside; others were abandoned in front of our house.

“At one point, I was caring for about 40 cats. Now, there are only 26 left after some died or went missing,” he said at his home recently.

Syahmi shared that he spends around RM1,500 each month on cat food and litter. The cost can rise to RM2,500 if any of the cats fall sick and require medical treatment or medication.

The oldest of three siblings said he is fortunate to have the full support of his parents, who not only help financially but also assist with caring for the cats.

“To be honest, my entire salary goes to the cats’ needs. I don’t get to enjoy luxuries like branded mobile phones, unlike some of my friends.

“But I feel fulfilled and grateful that I can take care of these animals. To me, these cats are the most valuable treasure,” he expressed.

Syahmi, who hopes to open his own animal shelter one day, said the cats are kept in a cage built beside the house, and are let out to play in turn according to a schedule.

He said he monitors their movements closely to ensure their safety and to avoid disturbing the neighbours.

“The cage – which was built with help from my parents – is a bit cramped, so I let them out to play every now and then for their well-being. I’ve always wanted to expand the enclosure, but sadly, money is tight.

“God willing, if I have the means, I will build a more comfortable space for them,” he added.