A devastating fire has left an animal shelter in Perak in ruins, destroying most of its facilities and forcing an urgent appeal for public donations to help rebuild and continue caring for rescued animals.
From rescue haven to ruins overnight
The blaze, which broke out unexpectedly, destroyed about 80% of the premises and a total of 21 animals (20 cats and a dog) perished in the fire.
According to Norfazilatun Zin, president of Noah’s Ark Ipoh Animal Welfare, some animals may have fled into nearby forested areas and she remains hopeful that they could return.
Another 24 animals survived but are currently receiving treatment for burn injuries.
“People may think they are just animals, but to us, they have names. When they have names, they are like our children.”
“I feel like half my life has been taken in that fire. I know recovery will take time, and I am allowing myself (time) to grieve”, Norfazilatun said.
Appeal for donations and future plans
According to Norfazilatun, the shelter now needs about RM40,000 to RM50,000 to rebuild after the devastating fire, so it can continue operating as a safe haven for special needs dogs and cats.
While rebuilding remains the immediate priority, she also shared long-term plans to develop a more sustainable setup, including a proposed cattery that would house rescued cats while also offering pet boarding services to generate income and support future operations.
She hopes this will ensure the shelter can continue even under future caretakers.
“I want something sustainable for my successor. I want Noah’s Ark to eventually have the capacity to generate its own income,” she said.
For now, the surviving animals (five special-needs dogs and 19 cats) are being cared for by volunteers in their own homes as the shelter regroups.
Help to recover
Those who wish to help can make donations can send to to CIMB account 8004 8859 41 (Persatuan Penyelamat Haiwan Terbiar Bahtera Noah Ipoh), or reach out via 012-437 2932 for more information.
Noah’s Ark Ipoh Animal Welfare is a fully volunteer-run NGO dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned animals.
The shelter frequently organises adoption drives at Lotus Bercham and Petronas Sunway to find loving homes for rescued animals. Despite the tragedy, Noah’s Ark will still proceed with its planned cat adoption drive this weekend (May 2 and 3) at Petronas Sunway Tambun from 10am to 5pm. Norfazilatun also appealed to the public for support and prayers.
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