KUALA LUMPUR – Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid has called for a swift, transparent and independent investigation into the death of Rocky, a pet dog that died during a capture operation in Port Klang, stressing that animal cruelty cannot be excused under any circumstances.
In a statement today, Syerleena said the death of Rocky, described as a beloved family pet, had deeply affected Malaysians and left his owners grieving over the loss of their companion.
“As a Malay Muslim, I reject without hesitation the brutal killing of Rocky,” she said.
Syerleena also dismissed attempts to justify violence against animals on religious grounds, saying that cruelty had no place in Islam.
“There is nothing Islamic about cruelty,” she said, adding that the religion emphasised rahmah (mercy), compassion and justice.
She said animals, including those that may pose a potential risk, should be handled with restraint and care rather than subjected to unnecessary violence.
The lawmaker further raised concerns over reports that Rocky’s family was allegedly met with indifference when they sought assistance and were told the dog did not have a licence.
“If those reports are true, that is unacceptable. Whether or not a pet is licensed is not an excuse for brutality, nor should it diminish the seriousness of a violent act,” she said.
Syerleena said any administrative violations should be dealt with through proper legal channels and should never be used as a justification for cruelty.
She stressed that any suspected breach of regulations must be investigated by the relevant authorities, warning against individuals taking matters into their own hands.
“Those who take the law into their own hands are not upholding justice — they are undermining it,” she said.
She added that those found responsible for wrongdoing must face appropriate action.
“Justice for Rocky is not just about one dog. It is about defending the rule of law, protecting the vulnerable and making it unequivocally clear that vigilantism has no place in Malaysia,” she said.
Rocky died during a dog capture operation at Taman Teluk Gedung Indah, Port Klang, on July 29.
The Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) said the operation was conducted following complaints from residents over an increasing number of stray dogs in the area.
The council said the operation involved 11 enforcement personnel, a Health Department officer and about 50 residents.
It said 12 stray dogs were captured using ministry-approved loop equipment in accordance with By-Law 17(1) of the MPK 2007 Dog Licensing and Dog Breeding Premises By-Laws.
MBDK said the operation was disrupted after several individuals allegedly obstructed officers attempting to capture a roaming dog, leading to a struggle that resulted in the animal’s death.
Police were subsequently called to the scene, while the council lodged a report over alleged obstruction of public officers and threats involving a sharp weapon.
MBDK maintained that its enforcement officers had carried out their duties in line with established animal welfare procedures.
Meanwhile, the Stray Animal Association of Malaysia called for a comprehensive investigation into Rocky’s death, alleging that the dog was beaten, strangled with a cable or wire, and dragged before it died.
The association claimed Rocky was captured by a group of residents and that his owner arrived while the dog was still alive but in critical condition.
It also questioned the involvement of two council officers who were allegedly present during the incident.
The group urged police to investigate all parties involved and called on the Selangor Veterinary Services Department to conduct a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death.
It reiterated that any licensing issue should be addressed through proper enforcement procedures and must never lead to harm or cruelty towards animals. – July 31, 2026