Kuala lumpur: A decision on the status of a Selangor state seat is anticipated to be finalized this week, which will allow the Election Commission (EC) to determine the necessity of a by-election, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced today. He indicated that the state government is awaiting a formal notification from the Selangor State Legislative Assembly Speaker regarding the seat's status, while the state legal adviser is in the process of preparing a note to be conveyed to relevant parties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amirudin emphasized that the matter is under the Speaker's jurisdiction and the legal adviser's note should be completed this week before the EC decides on the possible by-election. "We will abide by whatever decision the Election Commission makes following the Speaker's announcement," he stated during an assembly with civil servants and at the launch of the Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign.

Amirudin assured that the state government will adhere to all legal procedures and any resolutions made by the EC concerning a by-election, complying with the legal frameworks in place. Earlier media reports highlighted that the state government is evaluating the need for a by-election due to allegations about the eligibility of a Selangor state assemblyman.

In a separate matter, Amirudin addressed the ongoing issue of stray dogs in Selangor, emphasizing the government's proactive measures to protect public safety. He stressed that while action is necessary to address the issue, it must be carried out humanely and without cruelty. Enforcement must balance public interest and compassion, he noted.

Amirudin refuted claims that local authorities only respond to public pressure regarding animal welfare, reiterating that community safety concerning stray animals has always been a priority and has been discussed in the State Legislative Assembly. He affirmed the government's commitment to humane enforcement, acknowledging the concern expressed by Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, regarding animal welfare.

"Action has indeed been taken. Why are our officers being blamed? Because they acted. But if no action is taken, public safety becomes an issue. So we have to strike a balance by acting in accordance with the law to prevent incidents involving stray dogs or other roaming animals that could jeopardize public safety," Amirudin explained. This issue was also raised by the Port Klang assemblyman in the State Legislative Assembly, encouraging the public to avoid selective accusations.

Previously, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin voiced her sadness, disappointment, and anger over recent incidents of cruelty towards pets and stray animals, particularly dogs and cats, which have become viral. Istana Alam Shah reported that the Tengku Permaisuri has called on the Federal Government to review penalties under the Animal Welfare Act 2015 to ensure stricter and more consistent enforcement against those convicted of animal cruelty.