Damansara damai: A private veterinary clinic owner pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here today to a charge of abandoning the care of two animals, causing their deaths, at a premises in Damansara Damai this month.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Fadzilah A'ini A. Kadir, 68, was charged with unreasonably abandoning the care of a cat and a dog, leading to their deaths at the premises in December this year. The charge falls under Section 29(1)(e) of the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and carries a punishment under Section 29(1) of the same act. If convicted, the penalty includes a minimum fine of RM20,000 and a maximum of RM100,000, or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

Selangor State Veterinary Services Department prosecuting officer Mohd Sharif Sabran proposed a bail of RM10,000 with one surety, along with a condition that Dr Fadzilah's passport be surrendered to the court. However, Dr Fadzilah, who was not represented by a lawyer, requested a reduction in bail, citing her status as a single mother.

Judge Noor Ruzilawati Mohd Nor permitted Dr Fadzilah to be granted bail of RM8,000 with one surety, adhering to the additional conditions proposed by the prosecution. The court scheduled February 4 for the mention of the case, allowing time for the appointment of lawyers and submission of necessary documents.

Earlier reports in the media highlighted a viral video and photo on social media depicting a dog and a cat deceased at a veterinary clinic in Damansara Damai. Following the incident, the Selangor Veterinary Services Department confirmed receiving a complaint on December 17. An inspection revealed both animals were found dead in separate cages, with an estimated time of death ranging from one to two weeks.