“A humane way” – Penang Island City Council Upholds Zero-Kill Policy for Strays, Neuters 8,484 Dogs Since 2018

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has addressed the issue of stray and abandoned dogs, stressing its commitment to protecting both community well-being and animal welfare through its Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programme.

On its official Facebook page, MBPP clarified that since adopting the TNR programme in 2018, it has not put down any stray dogs. To date, a total of 8,484 dogs have been successfully neutered under the initiative.

MBPP contributes RM100,000 to cover operating costs

MBPP Mayor Dato’ Rajendran P. Anthony stated that the TNR programme, which was introduced on 1 March 2018, is carried out through a strategic collaboration between the Penang Island City Council and IAPWA Penang.

The statement reads,

“The collaboration between MBPP and IAPWA Penang began in 2017, and as of 17 May 2026, a total of 8,484 dogs have been neutered under the programme.

“The renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another five years, beginning 31 May 2026, reflects the strong cooperation and shared commitment between both parties in continuing efforts to manage the stray and abandoned dog population in a humane way.”

To further support the initiative, the Mayor presented a RM100,000 contribution from the council to IAPWA Penang to help cover a portion of the organisation’s operating costs.

Ensuring long-term sustainability and public safety

Rajendran added that the financial allocation would ensure the TNR programme continues to run effectively. Additionally, City Councillor Tan Soo Siang contributed RM5,000 in personal support of the initiative.

“MBPP today continued its commitment to addressing the issue of stray and abandoned dogs in a sustainable and humane way through the renewal of the MoU between MBPP and IAPWA Penang, which was held at the Brown Gallery, Town Hall, Jalan Padang Kota Lama,” the Mayor said.

“This strategic collaboration between MBPP, IAPWA, and industry players is expected to further strengthen sustainable stray animal control efforts. This will ensure public safety, community harmony, and the well-being of George Town and the state of Penang continue to be safeguarded,” he added.

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Also read: Elderly M’sian Woman Caring for Over 50 Strays Evicted from KL Land, Seeks Help to Save the Dogs