KUALA LUMPUR – Perlis Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah has defended his decision to shoot a cow that had gone on the rampage during a Hari Raya Aidiladha programme in Kuala Perlis yesterday, citing public safety concerns.
Addressing claims circulating on social media, he insisted that reports suggesting the animal was killed using a firearm as part of the ritual were misleading, local media reported.
“Only one cow was shot after it broke free and started rampaging, while 24 others were slaughtered following standard procedures.
“I did not shoot for pleasure. The cow went wild. If it had been left unchecked and gored someone to death, who would be responsible?
“When it broke loose, there was nothing else we could do. So I took the shotgun and fired at its legs, and only after it fell was it slaughtered,” he told FMT.
Police have yet to receive an official report, but initial investigations into the incident are underway.
Kangar Police Chief Yusharifuddin Mohd Yusop said authorities are examining the type of ammunition and firearm used, and that the viral video of the incident is already under police review.
“The incident shown in the viral video is already known to the police. No formal report has been lodged so far, but preliminary investigations are ongoing,” he said, adding that the Menteri Besar will be summoned soon to assist with further inquiries. – May 29, 2026