Kuala Lampur, Aug. 4 -- The death of Rocky in Port Klang should disturb us.

Not merely because a dog died, and not merely because there are questions surrounding the circumstances of his death, but because the incident forces us to confront a much larger question: what does the way we treat the most vulnerable among us say about who we are?

The reported circumstances of Rocky's death have rightly prompted calls for investigation, accountability, and stronger enforcement of Malaysia's animal-welfare laws.

But perhaps we need to look beyond legislation and punishment.

We need to ask why, in 2026, our response to stray animals so often remains one of removal, capture and, in some circumstances, killing.

There are more humane and sustain...