Investigation Opens Following Discovery of Deceased Animals in Damansara Damai Veterinary Clinic
Petaling Jaya authorities have commenced an investigation into an abandoned vet clinic located in Damansara Damai, Selangor, following reports of animal neglect resulting in the death of caged pets. The Selangor Veterinary Services Department (DVS) responded to public complaints after videos surfaced on social media showing decomposed remains of a cat and a dog found within the clinic’s premises. The incident has triggered concerns over animal welfare standards in veterinary facilities within Malaysia, drawing attention from both regulatory bodies and animal advocacy groups.
Authorities Arrived at the Scene to Assess Reported Neglect and Secure Evidence
On Wednesday, teams from Selangor DVS’s animal welfare division arrived at the clinic to conduct an on-site assessment prompted by the complaints. Their initial examination estimated that the animals had been deceased for approximately one to two weeks prior to discovery. Subsequently, the officers secured the carcasses and the cages as physical evidence for further forensic and investigative procedures. The clinic itself was found shuttered without any signage, and a formal notice affixed by the Selangor DVS was observed on its entrance.
Official Statements Confirm Investigation Under Animal Welfare Act and Further Actions Pending
According to a statement released by Selangor DVS, a formal investigation paper has been opened under subsection 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015. Authorities reiterated their commitment to conducting a thorough and transparent inquiry without bias or favouritism, inviting any witnesses to provide relevant information. The department clarified that any conclusions or legal action would be based strictly on the evidence gathered during the investigation. At this stage, no charges have been publicly disclosed, and the identity of the veterinary practitioner associated with the clinic remains confidential pending ongoing inquiries.
Various Stakeholders Call for Accountability and Improvement of Veterinary Care Standards
Following the incident, multiple animal welfare organisations and veterinary associations in Malaysia have responded with calls for decisive action against those responsible. The deputy chairman of the Malaysia National Animal Welfare Foundation (MNAWF), Dr Amilan Sivagurunathan, described the case as a serious breach of professional ethics that harms community trust in veterinary services. Dr Amilan urged the Malaysian Veterinary Council to conduct a review of the professional conduct of the involved parties and to endorse implementation of mandatory protocols ensuring proper transition of animal care when clinics close.
Similarly, the Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association (MSAVA) highlighted the need for adherence to legal procedures and regulatory frameworks during the investigation, emphasising the importance of fact-based conclusions. MSAVA reaffirmed its commitment to uphold high standards of veterinary professionalism, accountability, and animal welfare. Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better (MDDB) founder Wani Muthiah also expressed concerns about the systemic issues revealed by the incident, particularly noting the lack of trained support staff in some veterinary clinics nationwide. She proposed government-led certification and training programmes for veterinary nurses and technicians as measures to prevent future occurrences.
This Case Highlights Emerging Trends in Regulatory Oversight and Veterinary Industry Practices in Malaysia
In the short term, the investigation has prompted increased scrutiny of veterinary clinic operations in Selangor and surrounding areas such as Seri Kembangan and Batu Caves, where similar welfare concerns have been intermittently reported. While no traffic or public safety disruptions have been recorded as a result of the probe, the case is expected to influence enforcement priorities among local authorities responsible for animal welfare.
Looking ahead, the incident may accelerate regulatory reforms regarding veterinary business licensing, including stricter audits of animal care and discharge protocols upon facility closure. Additionally, this event underscores ongoing challenges in the veterinary profession related to training standards and workforce competency. Industry bodies and government agencies may expand collaboration to introduce compulsory training programmes and certification for veterinary support personnel to raise care standards across Malaysia.
Location: Petaling Jaya
Date: 2025-12-19
