In a provocative move aimed at raising awareness about animal confinement, animal rights organisation Peta has set up a small cage at Kasturi Walk in Pasar Seni here, offering shoppers RM10 for every minute they willingly stay inside.
The unconventional demonstration drew a mix of curiosity and pity from onlookers and participants, as while shoppers could earn a small sum from spending time in the enclosure, the underlying message was far from lighthearted.
A volunteer explained that the cage is meant to be a stark visual representation of the cramped and restrictive conditions that many animals endure in various industries, from factory farms to zoos.
“We want people to experience, even for a few brief moments, what it feels like to be confined.
“The objective is to truly empathise with the loss of freedom and the often-uncomfortable and unnatural conditions innocent animals face every single day,” said Ong Xin Ru.
Ong told FMT this event is the first of what will be a series of similar demonstrations.
Several shoppers participated in the activity, some seemingly intrigued by the novelty and the opportunity to earn some quick cash.
However, Peta volunteers were on hand to engage participants and the public, explaining the purpose behind the demonstration and sharing information about animal welfare issues.
“It was definitely eye-opening. You feel a bit vulnerable and restricted, especially under the hot sun when you are sweating without much space to move.
“It made me think about animals kept in cages their whole lives and strengthened my resolve to be vegetarian,” said Ravi, a tourist from India who spent over five minutes in the cage.
After Kuala Lumpur, Peta will stage similar events in Singapore, Bangkok, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and New York City.
