In the heart of Sepang, amidst the challenges of street life, lies a sanctuary where stray cats find solace and care. Welcome to the Cyberjaya Cat Park, a haven run by the Sepang Municipal Council (MPS) for felines in need.
Under the stewardship of MPS president Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain, this park not only offers shelter and sustenance to stray cats but also endeavors to maintain public spaces, ensuring areas like food courts and hawker centers remain free of feline strays.
Since its inception in March 2023, the 0.32-hectare Cyberjaya Cat Park, managed by MPS’s landscaping department, has become a beacon of hope for these vulnerable creatures. Located within Taman Tasik Cyberjaya, the park attracts visitors seeking tranquility amidst its scenic environs.
Arefah Rahim, director of the landscaping department, shared insights into the park’s operations, highlighting the “trap, neuter, and adopt” (TNA) approach practiced diligently. Stray cats rescued by the park undergo veterinary care, including neutering, before being entrusted to prospective adopters. With about 100 cats rescued thus far, the park has successfully found homes for 75 of them, ensuring they don’t return to the streets.
Striving for excellence in feline welfare, the park’s design and operations have been guided by expert consultations. Veterinary clinics provide regular check-ups, ensuring the well-being of the resident cats.
The commitment to care extends even in the face of loss, with the park employing meticulous burial practices to prevent the spread of disease. Arefah Rahim emphasized the park’s adherence to ethical standards, accepting only stray cats rescued from the streets and eschewing pets handed over by owners.
Despite the noble cause, sustaining the park poses financial challenges, with an annual budget of approximately RM70,000. While MPS shoulders the operating costs for now, public contributions through QR codes and kiosks are encouraged to ensure the park’s longevity.
The altruistic endeavor has garnered support from various quarters, including corporate entities and animal welfare advocates. Notably, the initiative has earned the endorsement of Tengku Permaisuri Hajah Norashikin, reflecting a shared commitment to compassion for animals.
As the park’s popularity grows, so does its influence, inspiring similar initiatives in neighboring municipalities. A testament to its success, the park has facilitated numerous adoptions, drawing visitors from across the country.
Muhammad Ramdzan Johari, the park’s dedicated supervisor, embodies the spirit of compassion, overseeing the well-being of its inhabitants with care and diligence. His anecdotes of resilience and reunion exemplify the bonds forged between caretakers and their charges.
In the spirit of community engagement, the park welcomes visitors every Wednesday and Sunday, as well as on public holidays, fostering a culture of awareness and compassion towards stray animals.
The Cyberjaya Cat Park stands as a testament to the power of collective action in safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable animals, serving as a beacon of hope for stray cats seeking a second chance at life.
