10 December is widely recognised as Human Rights Day, the day in 1948 when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (“UDHR”) was adopted, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of fundamental human rights for all. But a lesser-known fact is that 10 December is also observed as International Animal Rights Day.
On this day, activists highlight that the same principles of dignity, freedom and protection from cruelty that apply to humans should also apply to animals. International Animal Rights Day was established in 1998 by the animal rights group, Uncaged, which intentionally chose this date to align with Human Rights Day, to draw attention to the suffering of animals and call for universal compassion across species.1
In April this year, the Malaysian Bar took a historic step by establishing the Animal Rights Committee. This committee was formed to address the growing need to strengthen legal frameworks and policy advocacy, as well as heighten public awareness of the importance of humane treatment of animals in Malaysia. Its mandate includes examining gaps in existing laws, proposing reforms, and developing strategies to better uphold the rights and welfare of animals in this country.
While Malaysia has made some progress in animal protection, much work remains. Reports of abuse, neglect, illegal wildlife trafficking and weak enforcement continue to surface. These issues remind us that a just society is measured not only by how it treats its people, but also by how it treats its animals, who cannot speak or defend themselves.
The law is in place to assist the vulnerable, and extend its protective shield over all beings, human or animal, whose welfare depends on our collective conscience and action. This principle guides the Malaysian Bar in its commitment to ensuring that our legal system evolves to offer meaningful protection to animals also, recognising them as sentient beings deserving of care and respect.
The Malaysian Bar urges all stakeholders, government agencies, lawmakers, civil society organisations, and members of the public to work collaboratively in strengthening legal standards, improving enforcement mechanisms, and fostering a culture of compassion and responsibility. We further call for continuous review and enhancement of legislation, including the Animal Welfare Act 2015 and wildlife protection laws, to ensure the legislation meets present realities and international best practices.
On this important day, we honour not only the universal principles of human rights, but also the intrinsic value of all living beings. The Malaysian Bar stands firm in its belief that advancing animal rights is essential to building a humane, ethical and progressive nation.
Mohamad Ezri b Abdul Wahab
President
Malaysian Bar
10 December 2025
1 International Animal Rights Day, World Animal Protection website.