10th Annual Mutts & Mittens Charity Dinner Raises Hope for Ipoh’s Rescued Animals

The spirit of kindness and compassion filled the air at the 10th Annual Mutts & Mittens (M&M) Charity Dinner as hundreds of supporters gathered in Ipoh for a meaningful evening dedicated to improving the lives of rescued animals.

Held at Super HLT Restaurant on 16 May 2026, the annual fundraising dinner drew approximately 630 guests, bringing together animal lovers, volunteers, corporate sponsors, rescuers, feeders and advocates who all share one common goal: to support the welfare of stray animals in Perak.

For the Ipoh-based NGO, the evening marked another important milestone in its ongoing mission to renovate and upgrade its shelter for the 450 rescued dogs and cats currently under its care.

The dinner began on a warm and elegant note with live keyboard performances by Jayson Kuek, creating a relaxed atmosphere as guests settled into the evening.

RM20,000 Contribution from YB Sandrea Ng

Guest of honour YB Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee, announced a RM20,000 contribution to Mutts & Mittens through her constituency allocation in support of the organisation’s animal welfare efforts.

speech by YB Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee

In her speech, she said, “I would like to sincerely thank all of you who have long cared for stray animals and quietly dedicated yourselves to protecting these vulnerable lives. Over the years, many of you have been on the frontlines, whether through rescue work, feeding, medical assistance, neutering programmes or fundraising efforts. Even when faced with pressure or misunderstanding, you have continued to do what you believe is right, and that is truly commendable. On behalf of the state government, I extend my deepest appreciation for your unwavering commitment.”

She further highlighted that addressing stray animal issues requires long-term cooperation and shared responsibility: “Stray animal issues are never easy to solve. They require workable long-term solutions, consensus across different stakeholders, as well as time, resources and continuous effort. That is why we have been working towards a more humane and effective approach, focusing on addressing the issue at its source.”

appreciation to YB Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee (m)

She added that the state’s Pawsitive initiative continues to play a key role in controlling stray populations through sterilisation and public awareness programmes.
She explained that over 1,000 cats and dogs were sterilised last year under the programme, and efforts are continuing this year across more districts in Perak.

She also noted ongoing improvements to dog licensing by-laws across all 15 local councils in the state, aimed at standardising regulations and encouraging responsible ownership through better awareness and incentives.

She emphasised, “Owning a pet is not simply an act of love; it is a serious responsibility. Through better education and clearer guidelines, we hope to strengthen awareness and ensure animals are cared for properly throughout their lives.”

appreciation to the strongest supporters of M&M

A Donation That Touched Hearts

One of the evening’s most emotional moments came during the fundraising session when the NGO unexpectedly received a RM30,000 donation accompanied by a heartfelt message stating that the contribution was made in honour and memory of a beloved late dog named Golden Low.

The touching gesture deeply moved many guests present that night, serving as a reminder of the powerful emotional bond shared between humans and their pets.

Additional funds were also raised through a charity auction involving three bottles of liquor, with generous bidders enthusiastically supporting the cause.

Animals Have Very Few Choices

M&M founder-cum-president CK Chong also delivered an emotional address, expressing deep gratitude to everyone who supported the event.

speech by M&M founder-cum-president CK Chong

He said, “In today’s world, where global uncertainty and rising living costs affect many, we are especially grateful to everyone who still chose to be here tonight. This is not just a dinner or a ticket purchased; it is a conscious decision to extend kindness to lives that have no voice.”

He continued, “We do not continue this work because it is easy. We continue because these animals have very few choices beyond us. Without intervention, many simply would not survive.”

M&M founder-cum-president CK Chong poses for a photo with guests

He added, “Every contribution tonight will become food, medical care, shelter, and hope. In time, it may even become a second chance and a home.”

L-R: Aster Chay, Mutts & Mittens Secretary Janet Choy & musician Jayson Kuek

Recognising the Unsung Heroes Behind Animal Rescue

The charity dinner also served as a platform to honour the many volunteers, sponsors and supporters who have continuously stood beside Mutts & Mittens throughout its journey.

Behind every rescued animal is an enormous amount of unseen work, including feeding, rescuing, transporting, cleaning, fundraising, arranging medical treatment and coordinating adoptions. Much of this responsibility is carried out quietly by volunteers who dedicate their resources, time and energy simply because they care.

Special appreciation was extended to volunteers, sponsors and door gift contributors whose continued support has enabled the NGO to carry on its rescue efforts year after year.

Their contributions, whether big or small, continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.

performance by junior dancers of MY Dancesport Studio Ipoh

Entertainment resumed with energetic Latin dance performances by MY Dancesport Studio Ipoh, adding vibrancy and excitement to the programme while keeping the atmosphere lively throughout the night.

M&M ambassador El Lye was also present in support of the organisation’s efforts, helping to shine a spotlight on the importance of animal welfare awareness and responsible pet ownership through his advocacy and financial support.

Beyond the performances and social gathering, the true essence of the evening lay in the community’s collective compassion for animals that have been abandoned, abused or left to survive on the streets.

Mutts & Mittens Secretary Janet Choy (m) poses with guests

Beyond raising funds, the 10th Annual Mutts & Mittens Charity Dinner ultimately served as a powerful platform to raise awareness on the importance of animal welfare and how compassion can unite an entire community around a shared purpose: to protect vulnerable animals and create a kinder society.