As far back as I can remember, I have always had a great passion for animals.
Growing up, I spent time at my grandparents’ home in the heart of old Kuala Lumpur. They owned an enormous plot of land where my cousins and I would wander for hours during the holidays.
We had great fun chasing each other around the land. Spending time outdoors made me love nature and appreciate the animals that roamed freely.
We always made sure the animals had something to eat.
That passion continued into adulthood, and I have always made time to care for the strays in my neighbourhood.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, with travel restrictions and the Movement Control Order in place, I was heartbroken to see many pets abandoned and left to fend for themselves.
Along with a group of dedicated friends, we fed these animals to provide some relief. I am proud to say that, through our efforts, we even managed to find homes for some of them.
I firmly believe that children who are gentle and respectful towards animals will be respectful and empathetic to other human beings.
I touched on this in one of my previous columns when I wrote: “Teaching children to be kind to animals, whether they are their pets or strays, goes a long way towards shaping them into the type of citizens we want them to be.”
In 2019, my school – Global Oak Tree Scholars (GOTS) International School – auctioned off our scholars’ artwork and raised RM1,300 for an animal shelter.
In 2023 and early this year, we organised the Entrepreneurs’ Fair, where the money collected went towards the ‘GOTS Animal Rescue Club’.
Our scholars take turns managing the club with help from the coaches. All of them do so voluntarily.
The money raised helps feed and house stray animals. We have someone who helps look after the animals we rescue until we find them a permanent home.
Sometimes, it may take time to find a suitable home, as we want to ensure those who take in the animals will care for them lovingly.
I am pleased to announce that we were able to find homes for five abandoned dogs.
Caring for animals can increase a person’s emotional wellbeing and empathy, enhance their sense of purpose, and improve physical health.
Reducing the number of stray animals helps alleviate overcrowded shelters and prevent the spread of diseases.
I am hopeful our club will keep growing and making a difference. The effort and love invested in helping animals create ripples of positivity, proving that compassion and action can change lives for animals and people.
I am now trying to raise funds for a couple who feed 60 dogs in Port Dickson.
People like them have my respect, and I hope we can raise the funds needed to help them.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.
