Bandar Kuching MP calls for transparent probe into kitten dismemberment case at Unimas

Borneo Post

21-04-2025

Dr Kelvin Yii
KUCHING (April 21): Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii has called for greater transparency in the investigation on the dismemberment of a kitten within the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) campus.
The Democratic Action Party lawmaker said such transparency should include investigations by relevant authorities and even open engagements with relevant stakeholders and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
'I am deeply disturbed and concerned by the incident. The grotesque nature of the injuries including what appears to be clean-cut mutilations, raises serious questions about the circumstances and manner in which these acts were committed,' he said in a statement today.
Dr Yii said he echoed the sentiments of many people and animal welfare advocates in expressing doubts over Unimas' conclusion to its internal investigation, that the injuries were caused by a male cat.
He opined that the lack of transparency in the investigation process, the withholding of crucial evidence such as video footage, and the absence of an independent inquiry had served to erode public trust.
He claimed that a veterinary expert has pointed out that the nature of the mutilation suggests the strong possibility of human involvement.
'The assertion that another animal, even a male cat, is responsible for such actions, without a thorough forensic validation, is highly questionable,' he said.
As such, he urged the university to uphold transparency and share all relevant evidences with the authorities including release all available evidence such as CCTV recordings and documented witness statements, to allow for an independent review.
Dr Yii said Unimas should allow external veterinary experts and authorities to conduct a possible autopsy on the corpse, which has been buried properly as it claimed as well as to engage with independent animal welfare organisations to review the case and make necessary recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future.
According to him, this incident sheds light on the urgent need for Sarawak to reform and strengthen its legal framework on animal welfare.
'Unlike Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, which are governed by the Animal Welfare Act 2015, Sarawak currently operates under its own state ordinance that lacks sufficient enforcement mechanisms and punitive measures for cruelty against animals,' he said.
Dr Yii said the way people treat animals is a reflection of the society's values and morality.
'I will continue to raise this matter through all necessary channels until it is addressed appropriately,' he added. investigation Kelvin Yii kitten lead Unimas