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After 15 years of saving abandoned dogs, the Penang-based rescue organisation rallies community support to secure lasting home for hundreds of vulnerable animals
For 15 years, 4Paws Penang has been a lifeline for abandoned, abused and vulnerable dogs, offering rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming to animals that might otherwise have been forgotten.
Now, the long-running animal welfare organisation is embarking on its most ambitious mission yet: building a permanent shelter that can secure its future and expand its
life-saving work.
In conjunction with its 15th anniversary, 4Paws Penang will host a fundraising dinner on June 6 at Berjaya Penang Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, with proceeds going towards land acquisition and the development of a purpose-built sanctuary.
Tickets are priced at RM180 per person, with the event expected to bring together animal lovers, corporates and community supporters for an evening dedicated to strengthening Penang’s rescue ecosystem.
For founder Barbara Janssen, the move marks a critical turning point.
“Our focus now is on building something that can support our work long-term.
“A permanent shelter will allow us to provide better care, improve our facilities and continue rescuing dogs in a more sustainable way,” she said.
Currently operating from rented land in Teluk Bahang, 4Paws has long faced the challenges of temporary infrastructure, from maintenance burdens to limitations on expansion.
A permanent facility would significantly improve operational stability while allowing the organisation to better accommodate its growing number of rescues.
Planned features for the new shelter include secure kennels, sanitation zones, veterinary treatment spaces, rehabilitation facilities, exercise areas and a dedicated adoption and community engagement centre.
Beyond simply providing shelter, the project reflects the shelter’s broader vision of creating a sustainable, long-term foundation for animal welfare in Penang.
Since its founding, the no-kill organisation has grown from a grassroots rescue initiative into a major welfare operation caring for over 700 dogs, relying heavily on volunteer dedication and public support.
However, rising land costs and limited availability continue to challenge rescue groups across the region, making permanent infrastructure increasingly essential.
“This initiative is about strengthening what we have built over the past 15 years. With the right support, we can continue providing care and finding homes for dogs that need it,” Janssen added.
The fundraising dinner will also feature a buffet, lucky draw and auction, with corporate sponsorship opportunities available for businesses looking to support the cause.
Funds raised will directly contribute to land purchase, legal fees and essential construction costs.
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