Sustained cooperation vital for animal welfare protection

KUCHING: Protecting animal welfare requires sustained cooperation between communities, authorities and businesses, said Dayang Norjihan Abang Johari.

The daughter of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said programmes such as Furry Friends Fair 2026 could bring these groups together while promoting better care for pets and stray animals.

“I hope programmes such as this can increase public awareness and concern for animal welfare, particularly stray animals, while encouraging responsible pet ownership,” she said.

She said this when officiating at Furry Friends Fair 2026, organised by JJ Pet Shop at The Spring Shopping Mall here on Saturday.

Dayang Norjihan said the event served a wider purpose beyond showcasing pets and selling pet supplies, offering opportunities for people from different backgrounds to interact and learn.

She said it also reminded owners of their responsibility to ensure their pets received proper, safe and appropriate care.

Dayang Norjihan encouraged children, families and the wider community to participate in similar programmes, saying these could nurture compassion towards animals among the younger generation.

“Programmes such as this can foster creativity, build confidence and instil love, concern and compassion towards animals among the younger generation,” she said.

She expressed hope that the fair would continue to grow as a platform connecting animal lovers across Sarawak while strengthening awareness of animal welfare and responsible care.

Running from Oct 16 to 25, the fair features 19 booths selling pet accessories, food, vitamins and other pet care products.

Also present were Sarawak Veterinary Services Department director Datuk Dr Adrian Susin Ambud and Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) president Datin Seri Dona Drury-Wee.