What specific hygiene concerns did the retiree cite?

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Retiree Cited Hygiene Concerns and Frustration Over Unaddressed Issues Leading to Arson

A 68-year-old retiree set fire to cardboard cat houses in Bukit Batok void decks due to his belief that they were unhygienic and attracted pests. The retiree, Koh Teng Boo, expressed frustration that his attempts to address these concerns with his Member of Parliament resulted in no visible action, prompting him to resort to arson. His actions led to his sentencing of three months' jail for mischief by fire.
Beliefs About Unhygienic Conditions and Pests

Koh Teng Boo articulated that his primary motivation for setting fire to the makeshift shelters for community cats stemmed from his perception that they were unhygienic. He specifically believed these structures, which were often stocked with food and water for the animals, attracted birds and other pests. These concerns about the cleanliness and potential pest infestation associated with the cat houses fuelled his dissatisfaction.
Attempts to Resolve Issues Through Official Channels

Prior to taking matters into his own hands, Koh had attempted to resolve his concerns through established channels. He informed investigators that he had raised the issue of the cat houses with his Member of Parliament. However, he felt that no "visible action" was subsequently taken to address his complaints, leading to a sense of exasperation and a belief that his concerns were being ignored.
Escalation to Arson and Subsequent Legal Consequences

The retiree's frustration culminated in multiple incidents of setting fire to the cat houses. His first act involved burning three shelters in October 2025 by igniting them in an incense burner bin. Following further complaints to his MP and the reappearance of shelters, he committed another act of arson on November 19, 2025, using a lighter on a cat house. A subsequent attempt on November 20 was thwarted by passers-by who extinguished the fire. The cost of repairs for the damaged town council property amounted to S$913.

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What specific hygiene concerns did the retiree cite?

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