KUALA LUMPUR – After facing strong criticism online, Sunway Square Mall has amended its pet-friendly policy, restricting pets to designated outdoor areas following the Selangor government’s reaffirmation of its ban on animals in shopping malls.
In a statement on the mall’s Facebook page today, management clarified that pets are no longer allowed within the mall’s indoor spaces.
Instead, they are welcome at the Squarrel’s Playground, an outdoor park located at Sunway South Quay Lake.
Owners may also carry their pets when moving between the B3 and B4 car park levels and the outdoor park, under the guidance of security personnel.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank the community for their understanding,” the statement read.
The controversy erupted after Sunway Square Mall announced its pet-friendly initiative earlier this month, drawing mixed reactions from the public.
While some pet owners praised the mall’s effort to create inclusive spaces, many others criticised it online, citing hygiene and cultural concerns.
Concerns about pets, particularly dogs, urinating indoors and shedding fur on floors or seating areas, were widely shared on social media, contributing to the backlash.
Yesterday, Selangor Executive Councillor Ng Suee Lim reiterated that the state government maintains a prohibition on pets in shopping malls, emphasising the need to balance the interests of pet owners with broader community sensitivities.
He added that guidelines would be reviewed to ensure harmony, reflecting Malaysia’s multiracial culture and diverse public spaces. – December 18, 2025