The world of public transportation is about to get a whole lot cuter. Rapid KL, the public transportation company in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has embraced the unexpected charm of stray cats that have made their stations their homes. These feline residents, affectionately dubbed 'chonky' due to their round and cuddly appearances, have become beloved fixtures at several LRT stations, offering emotional support to passengers and adding a touch of whimsy to the daily commute.
One such cat, Kenit, named for her short, stumpy legs, has become a regular at LRT Ampang Station since 2022. Initially thought to be a stray, Kenit's loyalty to the station grew over time, and station employees took on the role of her caretaker, providing a designated feeding area. The station manager, Hamisah Aziz, shared that Kenit's affection for commuters is notable, especially during peak hours when she seeks attention and pets near the main stairwell entrance.
Adik, a calico cat, arrived at the same station earlier and shares a similar personality with Kenit, though with a different food preference. The two cats often position themselves near the station's main stairwell entrance during peak hours, seeking attention and pets from commuters. Their caretaker's passing briefly caused concern, but both cats returned, solidifying their place as unofficial station staff.
Lembu, a resident of LRT Datuk Keramat Station since August 2025, was initially a sickly stray. Named for his resemblance to cows from New Zealand due to his black spots on a white coat, Lembu has become an informal greeter at the station. He often acts as a docile yet lazy companion, spending most of his time sleeping and eating, and rarely disturbing passers-by.
Cantik, a superstar at Wangsa Maju Station, was also a stray when she first arrived in 2019. Named by a station employee for her beauty, Cantik is affectionate and accustomed to attention. Her favorite spots include the automated fare collection barrier gates and a sign display across from the customer service office, where she lounges and enjoys her meals. Her 'chonky' build is a testament to the care and attention she receives from both passengers and station employees.
The company's Head of Rail Operations, Noordin Abu Bakar, welcomes the cats' presence, emphasizing the importance of kindness towards animals. He acknowledges the bond formed between the cats and station employees, suggesting that the cats have indirectly become like staff members. While Rapid KL lacks an official policy on keeping the cats, Noordin suggests that monetizing their popularity through merchandising is a matter for future discussion. The company's approach to animal care reflects a commitment to creating a positive and compassionate environment for both commuters and these feline companions.
