On Oct 4th, people around the globe will be celebrating World Animal Day.

It is a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals.

It is not restricted to any one nationality, creed, religion, political belief or ideology.

It is a day devoted to remembering and paying tribute to all animals and the people who love and respect them.

It's to celebrate animal life in all its forms.

To celebrate humankind's relationship with animal kingdom.

To acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives -from being our companions, supporting and helping us, to bring a sense of wonder into our lives.

To acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives.

I am sure Malaysians from all walks of life especially the animal lovers and animal welfare orgainsations like the SPCA would have lined up special events to celebrate this day.

For Malaysian animal lovers, this year's World Animal Day will be the most memorable and meaningful one as their voices been heard.

Prime Minister Najib Razak has recently responded to the voices of the animal lovers in the country.

The PM has personally indicated his interest in meeting up with animal lovers to listen to their concerns, views, and recommendations as to how to improve the welfare of our animals and pets.

I am not sure when will this historical meeting will be held with the PM but I am confident it will be held soon. Animal lovers can look up for better times for the animals in the country soon.

Having said that and in conjunction with the World Animal Day celebrations I wish to appeal to the secretary general of the United Nations to kindly consider appointing a goodwill ambassador specifically to promote animal welfare and rights in member countries.

This will go a long way in acknowledging the diverse roles that animals play in human lives especially in enriching our lives during peaceful and turbulent times.

Mahatma Gandhi's quote sums it all - "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its animals are treated".