The tragic death of Kopi, a beloved stray dog in Terengganu, has sparked public outrage and calls for reform in animal welfare protection and policies. On October 6, during a culling operation conducted by local authorities in Besut, residents reported hearing “loud gunshots” and soon found Kopi injured and bleeding profusely in the street, according to My Forever Doggo (MFD), a popular animal advocacy account. Kopi’s story went viral, drawing widespread condemnation over the incident and demanding justice for the dog, who had become a familiar and friendly presence to locals.
Kopi first gained popularity when a TikTok video by AbbyRaz featuring the friendly stray playfully interacting with a stray kitten. The video footage of Kopi’s innocence and warmth resonated with many Malaysians and the sharing of similar friendly encounters with the stray over social media.
Upon receiving the news of Kopi’s case on 11th October, SAFM took swift action on 12th October, 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. SAFM’s appeal emphasised that animal cruelty, especially by authorities, is intolerable and called for the strict enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, which mandates humane treatment for animals in Malaysia. SAFM believes that Kopi’s death indicates the urgent need for effective enforcement of animal protection laws and policies by local councils in managing the population of stray animals.
Beyond demanding accountability, SAFM promotes humane alternatives to managing stray populations. SAFM encourages methods like Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), which involves trapping stray animals, spaying or neutering them, and releasing them back into their environment. TNR is viewed as a compassionate and effective way to reduce stray populations without resorting to lethal means, making urban areas safer for animals and residents.
Moreover, SAFM suggests adoption initiatives as a sustainable alternative to culling, urging local governments to work alongside animal welfare organisations to increase awareness about adopting strays. SAFM argues that humane approaches, such as TNR and adoption, better align with Malaysia’s evolving animal welfare values and prevent tragedies similar to Kopi’s.
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.
Ultimately, SAFM’s efforts and the public response to the tragic incident highlight the urgent need for meaningful change in Malaysia’s animal welfare policies. Hundreds of Malaysians have joined SAFM’s campaign and petition drive, submitting complaints to the PDRM and DVS and urging MDB to take accountability. The overwhelming collective response signifies a pivotal moment in Malaysian animal rights, with many hoping that Kopi’s story will inspire lasting reforms.
