Dog killing: UPM is attempting to suppress freedom of expression of its staff and students, says Peka
Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam (PEKA) took UPM to task for attempting to suppress the freedom of expression of the students and academic staff in the public university.
UPM had instructed the students and academic staff against issuing any statements related to the dog killing operation that was done in UPM late last year and early this year.
“This is a clear attempt by UPM to suppress the freedom of expression of the students and academic staff in UPM – a move unbecoming of an institution of higher learning.
“Any directive that prevents students from voicing their opinion is unconstitutional and thus illegal,” said Peka president Rajesh Nagarajan and secretary general Vimala Raghawan in a joint statement.
The duo pointed out that UPM clearly admitted engaging a third party contractor to eliminate the dogs, hence UPM is also liable.
UPM’s leaked internal email
In an internal email that was leaked out, UPM Vice Chancellor Datuk Professor Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah said that the Occupational Safety and Health Management Office (PPKKP) is usually responsible to handle disturbance of wild animals in the campus.
He said PPKKP had received numerous complaints of involving wild dogs. PPKKP then roped in the services of a third party to manage the issue.
“An internal investigation committee was formed on Oct 3 to look into all the allegations and improve the procedures in handling wild animals in campus.”
A report has been made to Department Veterinary Services (DVS) and Petaling Jaya district police headquarters.
The Serdang district police headquarters confirmed that they are investigating the matter under section 30(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015.
In light of this, Ahmad Farhan instructed the campus community against issuing any statements that may not be precise or confuse the public.
“UPM would issue statements via its Corporate Relations and Strategic Centre.
“As a preliminary action, UPM also decided to have a dialogue session with stakeholders to discuss on the best approach that can be taken in ensuring the safety of the people in campus and maintain the welfare of animals in accordance to the 2015 Animal Welfare Act.”
In view of this, Peka demanded UPM to admit its mistake.
“Issue a public apology to the Malaysian public and animal welfare community.
“Implement humane, lawful and transparent animal management protocols.
“Convene the promised dialogue session with students, NGOs and the DVS on an urgent and immediate basis.”
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