ANIMALS have rights. This is a clear inference on the recently passed Animal Welfare Bill, which sets up the Animal Welfare Board tasked with ending abusive behaviour towards animals. And, those caught committing the offence of œinfliction of trauma, pain or suffering on animals, which includes acts of beating, mutilating, poisoning, confining in areas that restrict natural movements of animals and abandoning them, will be severely dealt with. Owners who are implicated in these acts of cruelty to animals will also be liable. There is no doubting that the penalties are intended to punish with a minimum fine of RM20,000 and topping at RM100,000. Jail terms of three years are also applicable. The law now seeks to provide for animal welfare and wellbeing and prevent their unnecessary killing.
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