Posted on December 4, 2011, Sunday Borneo Post
TASTY: Gramong (second left) contributes to the fundraising by buying Christmas cookies from one of the booths. He is accompanied by SSPCA president Donna Drury Wee (left).
KUCHING: Sarawak Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) needs RM1.5 million to build a fully-equipped new animal shelter.
“The society will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, and its birthday wish is to be able to find a new plot of land on which to build a state-of-the-art facility to cater to the needs of the animals and people of Kuching.
“The state government is working hard to ensure that a plot of land is made available to the society,” said Assistant Minister of Tourism Datuk Gramong Juna, representing Minister of Tourism Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg at the launch of the SSPCA Charity Bazaar yesterday.
He added that acquiring the land was just the beginning, with funds to be found later for the building and accompanying facilities.
“The SSPCA committee is focussing its efforts on raising funds for the new shelter, setting a target of RM1.5 million,” he revealed, urging all people in Kuching, especially the corporate sector, to support the cause.
Proceeds from the charity bazaar would also go to caring for the animals at their current shelter at Mile 6 1/2, which houses over 300 cats, dogs, puppies and kittens that need food and medical care, incurring costs of over RM23,000 per month.
Gramong said the welfare of animals in Kuching, be they pets or strays, were the concern of everyone.
“We can and should be doing more, starting with pet owners who have to take greater responsibility for animals under their care, such as making sure they are spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted litters, making sure they have a safe and hygienic living environment, and that they receive the needed medical attention.
“Above all, be kind to animals and act to stop their abuse.”
Sixty-one booths took part in the bazaar, with participation from schools and colleges, clubs, NGOs, corporate bodies and animal lovers.
