November 25, 2024

Measures imposed in Sabah, Malaysia, to prevent trespassing into public areas by livestock

Measures are in place to hold livestock owners in Sabah, Malaysia, accountable to ensure their animals do not trespass onto public areas.

Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam was responding to Pantai Manis assemblyman Mohd Tamin Zainal on the issue of stray cattle in the constituency.

During his debate, Mohd Tamin said that there had been animals roaming unsupervised.

Under the Papar District Council (Control of Animals) By-Laws 1980, Dr Joachim said under Section 10(1) that owners must pay for any damage caused by their livestock.

"If found guilty, owners face fines of up to RM500 (US$111.75) or six months' imprisonment," he said at the state legislative assembly sitting on November 20.

Joachim, who is also the state Deputy Chief Minister, added that the council has undertaken several initiatives to tackle the problem. Among them are issuing notices and compounds to livestock owners, conducting operations to round up stray cattle based on public complaints, and providing holding pens for unclaimed animals.

"As a long-term measure, the local authority also plans to organise a dialogue session involving livestock owners, police, and veterinary officers in Papar," Joachim said. "This platform will serve to discuss sustainable solutions for livestock management."

- New Straits Times