Kopi was a female stray dog in Besut, Terengganu. A video of her playing with a small kitten went viral in 2023, and she became a beloved animal for some locals in the area. Although she had no registered owner, Kopi was taken care of by kind souls together with other animals in the area. However, she was shot one night during a stray culling operation by the local town council. Her death sparked outrage all over Malaysia, and many including Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) had call for immediate revision to the stray management methods done by local authorities.
Here is the full timeline of what happened and how SAFM had responded:
6 October 2024
Following Kopi’s death on October 6th, her story went viral, capturing the hearts of thousands. Known in her community as a gentle soul, Kopi often played with local stray animals and was regularly fed and looked after by residents. A video of her playing tenderly with a kitten had recently circulated online, endearing her even further to the public. Her senseless killing, however, was a bitter reminder of the harsh realities stray animals often face, and Malaysians were determined to hold the responsible authorities accountable.
Read more: 1. The Senseless Killing of Kopi
11 October 2024
Upon receiving the news of Kopi’s case on 11th October, SAFM took swift action, urging Malaysians to file complaints with the Royal Malaysian Police Force (PDRM) and the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) to ensure accountability and transparency in the investigation of the incident. SAFM insists that Kopi’s case reflects a larger, systemic issue within Malaysia’s approach to animal management and calls for the MDB to hold transparent investigations over the conduct of the personnel involved in the incident.
In the wake of this tragic event, Malaysians are demanding answers and changes. On social media, #JusticeForKopi has gained momentum, with users expressing outrage and support for stricter anti-animal cruelty laws. Many Malaysians shared personal encounters with strays, reflecting on the companionship and kindness these animals can bring. The public outrage over Kopi’s death indicates a significant societal shift toward empathy and humane treatment for all animals, whether owned pets or street-dwelling strays.
Read more: 2. SAFM Launches ‘Justice for Kopi’ Campaign
12 October 2024
SAFM launched an online petition demanding accountability and reform from authorities to prevent such incidents from recurring. In a matter of days, over 30,000 signatures were collected, indicating support from the public.
One of the central issues raised in the petition is the “gross failure” in the management of stray animals across Malaysia. The killing of Kopi is not an isolated case; there have been numerous reports of local authorities using inhumane methods to manage stray animals. This pattern of cruelty not only raises ethical concerns but also highlights the inadequacies in Malaysia’s current policies on animal welfare. Animal rights groups and concerned citizens have long advocated for the government to adopt a more compassionate approach, arguing that the existing policies enable abuse and cruelty toward stray animals.
Read more: 3. SAFM Initiates Online Petition to Seek Justice for Kopi & Strays in Malaysia
13 October 2024
By October 13 2024, a remarkable 120 reports had been filed to the Veterinary Services (DVS), reflecting a strong community commitment to holding those responsible accountable. This flood of reports signified more than just public anger—it was a collective call for change. SAFM noted that “Kopi’s death should serve as a catalyst for change in stray animal management,” encouraging local councils to adopt humane alternatives, such as Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs and adoption initiatives, rather than resorting to lethal measures.
The widespread attention on social media has brought Kopi’s story to the forefront of public discussion, highlighting the urgent need for ethical reforms in the treatment of stray animals. Citizens and activists alike are demanding that those responsible for her death face consequences and that measures are put in place to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Read more: 4. 120 DVS Reports Made by Malaysians
15 October 2024
On October 15, 2024, a powerful statement of unity and compassion for animals echoed through the Sentul District Police Headquarters (IPD Sentul) in Malaysia. Over 100 individuals, alongside 12 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), joined forces under the Animal Coalition led by the Society for Animal-Friends Malaysia (SAFM). Together, they lodged a formal police report, demonstrating the impact of collective action in advocating for animal welfare and justice.
For many Malaysians, Kopi was not just another stray; she was a symbol of innocence and resilience in the face of hardship. Her death has mobilized a nation, prompting citizens to stand together in the fight for more humane treatment of animals. SAFM, alongside the public, is determined to ensure that justice is served for Kopi, showing that the community’s collective voice is a powerful force for change.
Read more: 5. A Collective Stand at IPD Sentul, Kuala Lumpur
18 October 2024
On October 18, 2024, Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) took an important step alongside a coalition of 12 NGOs to present a heartfelt memorandum to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) in Putrajaya. This gathering united over 150 passionate individuals who share a common goal: to advocate for a brighter future for stray animals like Kopi.
The memorandum presented to the DVS represents a thoughtful blueprint for enhancing animal welfare in Malaysia. The coalition laid out key proposals aimed at addressing critical issues facing stray animals:
- Strengthening Animal Cruelty Laws
A significant aspect of the memorandum is the call for tougher penalties for those who commit acts of cruelty against animals. Tougher laws can deter future incidents and convey a strong message about the unacceptable nature of animal abuse. - Establishing Accessible Reporting Channels
To ensure timely intervention in cases of abuse, SAFM advocates for a streamlined reporting system. User-friendly mobile apps and hotlines would empower citizens to report incidents of cruelty efficiently, fostering a culture of accountability. - Promoting Public Education and Awareness
Education plays a vital role in creating lasting change. By launching public awareness campaigns about responsible pet ownership and humane treatment of animals, SAFM aims to cultivate empathy within the community, encouraging everyone to play a part in protecting stray animals. - Advocating for Ethical Management of Stray Populations
The coalition believes in implementing humane solutions for managing stray populations, such as spaying and neutering programs and the development of shelters. These initiatives can help control the stray population while ensuring their safety and well-being. - Fostering Collaboration with Government Agencies
Collaboration with local councils and government bodies is essential. By working together, NGOs and authorities can create a unified front that promotes animal welfare, strengthening the impact of their collective efforts.
Read more: 6. Justice for Kopi: SAFM & Coalition Took to Putrajaya
There is much to do for strays in Malaysia. SAFM has many plans to escalate and further this movement. For many more ‘Kopi’ out there, there are humans who are fighting for you, so that you may live and share this Earth together. Let’s keep the momentum going, and together fight for humane treatment of stray animals.
