Penang stray-feeding fine sparks online backlash and debate over animal welfare
A Penang City Council sign warning against feeding stray animals has gone viral after revealing possible fines of up to RM500, sparking heated debate among Malaysians over compassion, religion, and public hygiene laws.
- A Penang signboard warning of RM500 fines for feeding strays has triggered public outrage.
- Many social media users argue feeding animals is an act of kindness, not an offence.
- Similar bans in other Malaysian cities have previously faced backlash and policy clarification.
MALAYSIA — A signboard in Penang warning the public against feeding stray animals has ignited debate and criticism online, after a viral TikTok video showed that violators could face fines of up to RM500 (about US$105).
The sign, located in Butterworth and bearing the official logo of the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), states that feeding stray cats, dogs, or birds could result in penalties under Section 47(1)(G) of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974.
According to the notice, feeding strays may cause several issues, including littering, population growth, public disturbances, and changes to the animals’ natural foraging habits.
A video posted by TikTok user @shancool5 showing the signboard has since drawn more than 145,000 views as of 10 October 2025, with many Malaysians expressing disapproval over the restriction.
Public Reactions: “I’ll Still Feed Them”
Commenters flooded the post with emotional responses, with many arguing that feeding animals should not be penalised.
One user wrote, “In Islam, feeding animals is considered a form of charity, so I don’t care — I’ll still give them food.”
Others echoed the same sentiment:
“Fine or not, I’ll keep food in my car to feed them.
“I don’t care about the fine — I’ll pay it and feed the animals right in front of you.”
However, it remains unclear when the signboard was put up or whether it is a recent installation.
Not the First Controversy Over Stray Feeding Bans
This is not the first time such warnings have appeared in Malaysia.
In January 2021, a similar banner by the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) went viral for prohibiting the feeding of wild and stray animals, including monkeys, cats, dogs, and pigeons, World of Buzz reported.
The banner listed comparable reasons — such as littering, changes in animal behaviour, and overpopulation — and reminded the public that feeding strays was an offence under local government laws.
Following public backlash, MBSA clarified that the measure was part of its “Feed Responsibly” campaign, aimed at educating residents to care for animals properly if they choose to feed them.
The council cited the Animal Welfare Act Section 33, which holds feeders accountable for the animals’ welfare, effectively making them responsible owners.
According to MBSA, the campaign was introduced after authorities received over 1,800 complaints about stray dogs in 2020, many of which involved public disturbances or safety concerns.
