BATU GAJAH, Sept. 24 -- The Batu Gajah District Council (MDBG) has become the first local authority in Malaysia to give communities legal power to rein in straying livestock - cattle, buffaloes and goats - animals that often wander into roads and pose serious danger to motorists.

MDBG secretary Muazatul Adawiyah Muhammad said the initiative allowed appointed community agents to act under the Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171) and the MDBG Licensing of Livestock and Stray Animals By-Laws 2012.

"This is a pilot project aimed at strengthening enforcement through the community, especially in areas where straying livestock have posed risks to public safety," she told a press conference at the MDBG's office here.

The initiative involves 16 ...