Animal lover finds new best friend at MBJB event
JOHOR BARU: Three years after losing his two beloved dogs Stripe and Lucky, Chua Kah Lun has opened his heart to a new pet.
The 36-year-old said the two canines had been with him for over a decade and passed away just months apart, at the age of 13 and 14 respectively.
'Their absence left a void in our lives. Stripe and Lucky were not just my companions, they were a part of my parents' lives too.
'Our house felt unbearably quiet after they passed away. Taking in a new dog would ease our longing,' he said when met at a stray dog adoption programme organised by the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) in Plentong on Sunday.
'Strays deserve to be loved too. They need a family to care for them and provide them a safe place to live,' said Chua, who also has two cats and is fostering three others at a rescue shelter.
At the event, he met the 20 dogs up for adoption, carefully interacting with each of them.
His eyes fell on a calm-looking black dog.
'This cute little fellow will be my new friend. It reminds me of Lucky and Stripe, who were also gentle and affectionate,' he said. Chua Kah Lun
Chua said the adoption, which includes vaccination and neutering, is free.
The event also featured a Most Beautiful Dog contest, where six canines competed for the title.
Housewife Sylvia Kusuma beamed with pride when her eight-year-old English bulldog, named Chocolate, won third place in the contest.
Despite its stocky build and serious expression, Chocolate charmed the judges with its laid-back and comical personality.
'I have had Chocolate since he was a puppy. We have been together for eight years.
'He is very lazy and sleeps most of the time. The time he becomes active is during meals,' said the 35-year-old.
MBJB mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad said stray dog issues remain a major concern among city dwellers.
He said as of June, the council had captured 2,034 stray dogs.
He revealed that the Housing and Local Government Ministry had allocated RM10,000 for the Stray Animal Management Campaign 2025, which includes public awareness programmes, licensing advocacy and adoption opportunities.
Mohd Haffiz said capturing stray dogs and putting them up for adoption could help prevent diseases like rabies, leptospirosis and salmonella from spreading.
He said the council had neutered 850 strays in four phases since last year.
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