from : Chan Kah Yein chankahyein@gmail.com
to : Ramachandran M <ramachandran.ram@gmail.com>, Hannah Yeoh <hannahyeoh@dapsj.com>, Rajiv Rishyakaran <rajiv@dapsj.com>
date : Mon, Dec 19, 2011 at 7:37 AM
subject : the rat problem in SS15 and the rest of Subang Jaya
mailed-by gmail.com
hide details 7:37 AM (0 minutes ago)
Dear YB Hannah, Mr Ram and Mr Rajiv,I read with sadness that the council (or a certain authority) had strewn poisoned bread in SS15 which led to the deaths of a large number of rats.
While I understand the said authority has to address the rat problem, I feel this method does not provide a long-term solution to the problem.
If I may propose, would the authority be willing to consider the following:
1. Biological control – the presence of cats will keep rats at bay. This was done at a temple in Taiping. They had a major rat problem and the monks decided to keep male cats. Soon, all the rats disappeared. The cats did not even have to eat the rats. The rats just disappeared due to the presence of cats. These male cats can be neutered so that they would not breed. If the authority needs financial help in neutering the cats, please let me know.
2. Cleanliness – the drains in SS14, SS15, SS18/5, SS19/6 and perhaps even other places in Subang Jaya are very smelly, clogged up and extremely dirty, especially those located beside or behind restaurants and eating-places. Such habitat would be conducive for the breeding of rats. Instead of investing in poisoned bread, it may be more effective and humane to spend the money on detergents to massively clean up these drains. Perhaps a gotong royong project could be called for, which in turn might foster goodwill and responsibility amongst the residents and inculcate the idea that Subang Jaya is a compassionate township and that we will use humane ways to solve problems. Even if the residents do not wish to participate, the authority can lead by example and start the ball rolling.
3. Cleanliness – once the drains have been cleaned up, conduct stringents checks on cleanliness. Impose heavy penalties should restaurant or coffee-shops owners discard food wastes into the drains.
Last but not least, I plead that you allow me to reiterate that killing does not provide any long-term solution to any problem. Even if it does not weigh heavily on the moral conscience of the people who do it or those who order for it to be done, the bottom line is, killing is just not right.
Your consideration is much appreciated.
Thank you.
Regards,
Chan Kah Yein
—
www.animalcare.my
AnimalCare is a charity that promotes caregiving to stray animals and helps in their spay-neuter and medical needs.
Comments
One response to “The letter to the YB of Subang Jaya”
Dr Chan,
Nicey one! Hope the YB & council have eye to read & have brain to process the message given.