Target: Mohamad Sabu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industries, Malaysia
A recent incident of animal cruelty has drawn widespread attention in Kajang, Malaysia, where professional badminton player Samuel Lee has admitted to beating his dog, a husky, on multiple occasions. The abusive acts were captured on video by a neighbor and subsequently went viral on social media, sparking outrage among animal lovers and the general public. Lee was charged under Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which provides for fines and imprisonment for animal cruelty offenses and found guilty in court.
During the court proceedings, Judge Mazuliana Abdul Rashid imposed a fine of RM25,000 on Lee, with the alternative of a six-month jail term if the fine is not paid. Although this sentence falls within the legal framework, many believe it is insufficient given the severity of the act. The video evidence showing Lee repeatedly beating the husky on his balcony has raised serious concerns about the current penalties for animal abuse and the need for stricter enforcement to prevent such cruelty.
This case highlights the urgent need for harsher penalties and more rigorous enforcement of animal welfare laws in Malaysia. It is crucial that the Minister of Agriculture and Food Industries takes immediate steps to review the existing legislation and ensure that those who commit acts of cruelty against animals face appropriate and severe consequences. Send a clear message that animal abuse will not be tolerated and work towards a more compassionate society.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Mohamad Sabu,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent case of animal cruelty involving professional badminton player Samuel Lee, who was fined RM25,000 for repeatedly beating his dog, a husky, on the balcony of his residence in Kajang. The act of cruelty, which was captured on video by a neighbor and went viral on social media, has caused widespread outrage and has brought to light the need for stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws.
Although Lee has been fined under Section 29(1)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, many believe that the penalty is not sufficient to reflect the severity of the abuse. The current legal framework, which provides for fines and imprisonment for such offenses, must be reviewed to ensure that the penalties serve as a strong deterrent against animal cruelty.
I urge you to take immediate action to strengthen the penalties under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and to implement more rigorous enforcement measures to protect the welfare of animals in Malaysia. By doing so, you will send a clear message that animal cruelty is unacceptable and will be met with severe consequences. It is essential that we work together to promote a more humane society and ensure the well-being of all animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Scott Kinmartin
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