CALLING all cat lovers to attend the Penang International Cat Fiesta (PICF) 2024 at Setia SPICE Arena from today until tomorrow (April 6 until 7), from 10am to 8pm.
Organised by the World Cat Federation (WCF) for the second time in Penang, the event features more than 300 cats from various species, such as Persian, Balinese, savannah, Scottish Fold, Somali, Siamese, Ragdoll and many others, hailing from all parts of the globe.
There are various activities scheduled during the two-day event, including grooming demonstrations, petcare talks, cat show competitions and more.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the event, said this event promises joy, fascination, and knowledge-sharing for cat lovers from near and far.
“It is a truly delightful celebration of our feline companions.
“PICF 2024 is not merely a showcase of our feline friends but it umbrellas multiple activities and programmes all under one roof.
“This includes cat grooming workshops, mini zoo and playground, cat show competition, cat specialists, drawing competition, cat interaction section, and pet store display.
“In addition to that, knowledge-sharing seminars and a pedigreed cat ownership campaign will be conducted to equip cat owners with the latest information and understanding of their cat’s behaviours.
“As a result, this year’s PICF is expected to attract a tenfold increase in the number of visitors recorded last year,” said Chow in his speech.
Chow also encouraged cat enthusiasts to attend the event as it provides an educational platform to learn more about different cat species.
On a separate matter, Chow added that the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has collaborated closely with the Independent Aid for Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) since 2017 to control the stray and abandoned dogs population through its Trap-Neuter-Release (or Rehome) programme (TNR).
“From such collaboration, MBPP has successfully managed to neuter 6,046 stray and abandoned dogs as part of its TNR programme, from 2017 until now.
“Penang also is the first state to carry out the TNR programme as we also adopt the no killing policy.
“As a result, we managed to reduce the stray dogs population in public places. And we will continue with such strategy to contain stray populations particularly dog,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat