A UK-based videographer has stirred controversy after posting a detailed account on Instagram on February 6, claiming to have witnessed the sale of cat meat in a secluded part of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. The allegation has prompted public outcry and calls for immediate investigation by local authorities.
The cameraman’s post, a 430-word narrative, described his unexpected discovery behind a dilapidated doorway in an area not frequented by tourists. According to his account, curiosity led him to explore the area further after observing people entering and exiting the obscure entryway. His cousin, however, chose not to join.
The post detailed how the cameraman initially dismissed a caged kitten on a counter as a pet due to a ladle resting on the cage and a sign that read, “Not for Sale. This is my pet. Not for eating.” However, the scene quickly changed as he witnessed a transaction involving a woman, described by the videographer as resembling a “Bond villain,” purchasing what appeared to be cat meat directly from a butcher at the stand.
Despite the signage suggesting otherwise, the videographer claimed to see the butcher prepare cat meat in front of his eyes, prompting him to leave the scene swiftly, feeling uneasy and shocked by the ordeal.
This revelation has led to an uproar among netizens, particularly on Petaling Street where the incident reportedly took place. Many have expressed disbelief and disgust, with the top comment from a local resident stating, “Wait, I’m a Malaysian, yet I had no idea this existed? What? OMG!” Another user implored, “Please look into this!”, urging the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to investigate.
The current laws in Malaysia do not specifically ban the sale or consumption of dog and cat meat, a legal gap that animal rights organizations have been lobbying to close for over a decade. The incident has reignited debates about animal rights and the need for clearer legislation against the trade and consumption of pet animals in Malaysia.
As of now, authorities have not commented on the situation, and the veracity of the claims made by the UK videographer remains to be officially verified. The incident underscores the complexities of cultural practices and the ongoing challenges in animal protection legislation.
