Selangor authorities begin inquiry after discovery of deceased animals in Damansara Damai clinic
Petaling Jaya: The Selangor Veterinary Services Department (DVS) has initiated an investigation into the deaths of animals found neglected in cages at an abandoned vet clinic located in Damansara Damai, Petaling Jaya. This development follows the circulation of viral videos. Showing decomposing remains of a cat and a dog confined within the clinic premises. The incident has raised concerns among animal welfare groups and the general public. Prompting authorities to seek clarity and accountability regarding the case.
Initial inspection and response occurred swiftly after complaint was lodged
The Selangor DVS responded promptly after receiving complaints regarding the condition of animals at the clinic. On Wednesday, a team of animal welfare officers was deployed to the site for an examination. According to the initial assessment, the carcasses discovered appeared to have been deceased for approximately one to two weeks. The officers collected both the remains and the cages as part of evidence gathering ahead of further inquiry. During a site inspection, The Star noted that the clinic was closed with no signage displayed, and an official notice from the Selangor DVS was affixed to the shuttered entrance.
Authorities confirm investigation is conducted under Animal Welfare Act with transparency assured
The Selangor DVS has officially opened an investigation paper into the matter. Citing provisions under subsection 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015. The department has encouraged witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist with the investigation. In a statement released on Wednesday, Selangor DVS emphasised that the probe will be thorough, transparent, and free from any form of compromise or favouritism. The department’s involvement indicates a formal regulatory approach to managing welfare cases within veterinary settings in Selangor and Malaysia in general.
Animal welfare groups and veterinary bodies call for accountability and industry reforms
Several animal welfare advocates and professional veterinary organisations have issued statements in response to the incident. Malaysia National Animal Welfare Foundation (MNAWF) deputy chairman Dr Amilan Sivagurunathan condemned the occurrence as a serious breach of professional ethics with potential to damage the veterinary profession’s reputation. He supported the current investigations and urged the Malaysian Veterinary Council to review the conduct and professional standing of individuals involved. Dr Amilan further proposed the introduction of a mandatory “Patient Transition Protocol” that would require veterinary clinics to verify and audit animal discharges or transfers before formally ceasing operations, aiming to prevent similar neglect in future.
In parallel, the Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association (MSAVA) called for adherence to established legal frameworks in conducting the investigation and stressed the importance of decisions based on verified evidence. MSAVA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding veterinary professionalism, accountability, and animal welfare. Alongside continued collaboration with regulatory bodies to maintain public trust.
Meanwhile, founder of Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better (MDDB), Wani Muthiah. Highlighted systemic issues linked to the shortage of trained veterinary support staff. She suggested government action towards implementing structured certification and training programmes for veterinary nurses, technicians, and attendants to enhance staffing quality at clinics. Wani also advocated for potential suspension or revocation of the veterinary professional’s permit related to the clinic in question.
Incident expected to shape future regulatory compliance and animal welfare standards in Malaysia
In the short term, the investigation is likely to affect regulatory scrutiny on abandoned veterinary clinics and enforcement of animal welfare laws in Selangor and across Malaysia. Authorities may increase inspections and monitoring of facilities to avoid recurrence of such neglect. Over the longer term, the incident could reinforce calls for robust operational and ethical standards within the veterinary industry. Including mandatory protocols for transferring animal care responsibilities during business closures. These trends correspond with growing public and industry emphasis on upholding safety and welfare standards for animals under professional care.
The case also raises broader questions about infrastructure readiness in Malaysia’s veterinary sector. Particularly in urban centres such as Petaling Jaya and Selangor. As regulatory bodies continue investigative efforts. The progress of this case may inform future policy adjustments aimed at preventing similar incidents and fostering higher accountability in veterinary practices.
Location: Petaling Jaya
Date: 2025-12-19
