The groups said a national policy is critical not only for the welfare of stray animals, but also for dealing with the broader ethical implications of stray overpopulation.

They said the existing approach – primarily consisting of inhumane and ineffective “catch and kill” methods – was not only failing to reduce the stray animal population, but was also exacerbating the crisis.

“Instead, the government must recognise stray overpopulation as a national issue that requires structured, humane, and sustainable solutions,” said the coalition in a statement.

“A long-term, structured national policy will not only protect the welfare of strays but also create safer, healthier and more civilised communities for all Malaysians.”

The coalition put forward several recommendations, such as the adoption of a nationwide programme to trap, neuter, vaccinate, release and manage strays which they said had been proven globally to reduce stray populations while balancing animal welfare and public safety.

The government should allocate a dedicated budget for humane stray management, they said. Resources currently used for “ineffective and cruel catch and kill operations” should be reallocated.

The coalition also called for government incentives to encourage partnerships between NGOs and companies via donations and tax incentives and with other institutions and grassroots organisations.

The group called for the recruitment of dedicated animal welfare officers to oversee stray population management under the Animal Welfare Act.

The coalition’s 25 members include various state branches of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia, and the Stray Free Foundation.

The statement by the welfare groups come in the wake of a police report that was lodged earlier today against the Kluang municipal council for alleged animal abuse and burying dogs alive.

Separately, the Kluang municipal council had also lodged a police report and the authorities are probing the matter for defamation.