Parti Gerakan is surprised to learn that birds that can be used as fighting cocks can be imported and reared in the country. The practice should have been banned long ago, or at least the law on fowl import be more stringent.

It is shocking to know that by allowing the entry of these birds, the despicable “sport” become possible. The most dangerous aspect of this is, of course, is the unchecked import of H5N1 virus of avian influenza, thereby endangering the health of thousands.

Apart from that, it is cruel, where battling roosters mutilate and kill each other, suffering painfully in the process while being goaded on by greedy, heartless owners and spectators.

Besides, it encourages gambling, which is another excellent reason for ensuring that it ceases. This can only be accomplished by making it next to impossible to bring in birds that can be trained and transformed into fighters.

Dato Dr. S. Vijayaratnam,
Vice President,
Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia.