Animal Kindness Coalition

On the 5th August 2025, I stepped into Malaysia Parliament again - not as a politician, not as a VIP, but as a rakyat, a citizen who deeply cares about a cause that’s often overlooked: the lives of stray animals in our country, and the people who are connected to them - feeders, rescuers, animal lovers… even those who fear or dislike them.
As I looked around, I saw people in coats, suits, traditional attire - everyone looked official, purposeful.

There were prominent politicians and Parliament members walking with intent, familiar with the rhythm of the place. Some were community leaders, some were NGO representatives like myself, and others were there to lend their voices to the causes they believe in. And yes, many were taking photos too. Because let’s be honest - how often do ordinary people like us get to step foot in this symbolic place? A place where laws are debated, where national policies are shaped, where the direction of our country is decided.

It made me reflect: The Parliament isn't just a grand building. It is a place that holds the power to change lives - mine, yours, and even those of the voiceless animals I advocate for. It's easy to feel disconnected from “politik”, but decisions made within those walls ripple into every kampung, every apartment block, every stray-filled back alley in Malaysia.

Our Alliance of Malaysia Animal NGOs (AMAN) had the chance to meet YB Dato’ Sri Azalina. Beyond her impressive role as a seasoned policymaker, what stood out was her warmth and honesty. She spoke not just as a minister, but as a fellow pet owner - someone who understands the emotional, financial, and time-consuming demands of caring for senior animals and energetic young ones. She shared openly about the challenges of keeping up with their needs: the sickly old ones, the hyper young ones, the medical bills, the time, the patience. It’s not easy - and that’s what makes her empathy so real.

Later, we met YB Wong Chen (MP Subang) and his special officer, Ivan. YB Wong Chen was refreshingly candid. He acknowledged something we’ve long suspected - that animal welfare is, sadly, not a top priority for many in government, nor for the majority of society. With so many pressing human issues - poverty, baby dumping, underprivileged families, economy growth… animal-related concerns are often pushed to the bottom of the list. YB Azalina had also alluded to this reality. And while it’s hard to hear, it’s also a truth we must face if we want to move forward.

Yet YB Wong Chen offered hope. He reminded us that change is still possible - if local government leaders are compassionate and forward-thinking.
It can begin with small, brave steps: approving a pilot TNRM (Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage) project, supporting a local initiative, or simply being willing to listen. This isn’t about choosing between human needs and animal needs - it’s about recognising that the two are deeply interconnected.

Because how we treat animals is a reflection of how we treat each other.
I remember so clearly what Larissa Ann told me when she invited my NGO, Animal Kindness Coalition, to be part of the Human Rights Festival back in 2024 - an event organised by the Bar Council. I was surprised at first. “But we’re an animal welfare NGO,” I said. “Isn’t this about human rights?”

And her answer stuck with me.
She reminded me that human rights and animal rights are not separate. In fact, animals don’t have legal rights in the same way humans do, but we, as humans, hold the power, the responsibility, and the moral obligation to protect them. Their welfare is in our hands. Advocacy for animals is, in many ways, a reflection of our humanity. Because a society that treats its animals with care and dignity is often one that respects human dignity too.

Each of them - despite being politicians - are, at the end of the day, people with causes they care about, goals they want to achieve, and communities they are trying to serve. We may not always agree with every decision they make, but being there in person reminded me: there is effort behind the scenes. There is intention. There is purpose. Some may not agree with what I fight for. Others go above and beyond to support it. But when we strip away politics, ego, and noise - we are left with a simple truth: we are all trying to make life better. For someone. For something. And that matters.

Whether we are fighting for animals, the environment, education, healthcare, or human rights - ultimately, we are all fighting for life. For dignity. For a better quality of living for those who cannot always speak for themselves.

To the retirees who once held power: your voice and wisdom still matter.
To those with influence today: you hold the means to uplift.
To the rakyat - those juggling work, family, and quiet acts of kindness - you are the pulse of this country.

And to the silent heroes feeding strays behind their kopitiams or rushing sick animals to the vet after hours - you are the reason change is possible.

As we approach Merdeka Day , may we remember that independence isn’t just about freedom from the past - it is about the collective responsibility we carry into the future. A truly merdeka nation is one where compassion guides our actions, justice is extended to all living beings, and no voice - no matter how small, furry, or forgotten - is left unheard.

Yesterday, Parliament reminded me of something simple, yet profound: real power isn’t just in making laws. It’s in making space for the right things to grow - for justice, for dignity, for empathy, and for life itself.

Let’s never forget that.

Let this be our shared journey: toward a Malaysia where coexistence, empathy, and dignity are not just ideals, but everyday acts of nation-building.

Representatives of Alliance of Malaysia Animal NGOs (AMAN) during this Malaysia Parliament Visit:
IAPWA Penang
Shikin Shelter
Karin Lee
Animal Kindness Coalition

A Day in Malaysia Parliament