Cover image via Animal Kindness Coalition
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Animal Kindness Coalition, a group of dedicated rescuers, feeders, and animal advocates, has expressed support for a proposed roundtable discussion by the Selangor state government on allowing pets in selected public spaces
In a statement, the coalition — together with animal welfare groups, community organisations, private sector stakeholders, and concerned members of the public — backed Selangor Local Government and Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim's proposal to develop clear guidelines on permitting pets in certain public places.
Ng raised the matter after a new mall in Selangor reversed its pet-friendly policy following public concerns over religious sensitivities and hygiene
While noting that current state guidelines prohibit pets in enclosed premises, Ng said Selangor, as a progressive and cosmopolitan state, should review the rules, citing growing demand from pet owners who wish to bring their dogs on outings.
According to The Straits Times, he called for a roundtable involving animal groups, local councils, and other stakeholders to draft a framework and clearer guidelines.
He explained that formal rules would help prevent unintentional violations of the law while promoting responsible pet ownership, safety, and hygiene.
However, the proposal drew criticism from Permatang assemblyman Nurul Syazwani Noh, who said the new guidelines are not needed
According to The Star, she said such moves goes against the Federal Constitution, which recognises Islam as the religion of the Federation. According to her, this means all government policies must take into account Islamic law and the sensitivities of Muslims.
Nurul Syazwani said efforts to normalise pets in enclosed public spaces — particularly those involving food premises — should not be viewed solely as a lifestyle matter.
In a plural society, she added, freedom must be balanced to ensure one group's practices do not affect the rights, comfort, and beliefs of others, especially on issues related to cleanliness, food, and religion.
Animal Kindness Coalition expressed support for Ng's proposal, saying public discussion would help promote social harmony and encourage stakeholders to work together toward solutions that respect everyone's rights, beliefs, and responsibilities
"Seeking clarity through dialogue does not override existing laws, religious principles, or enforcement mechanisms. On the contrary, it helps ensure policies are clearly understood, applied consistently, and enforced fairly, while promoting mutual respect, social harmony, and unity in a diverse society," said Animal Kindness Coalition president Asther Lau.
"Structured dialogue is a recognised tool of good governance. It allows relevant stakeholders, including local councils, religious authorities, business operators, animal advocates, and the public, to clarify boundaries, align interpretations, and prevent misunderstandings.
"Clear guidelines developed through consultation benefit all parties by safeguarding halal compliance and cleanliness, providing certainty for businesses and mall operators, guiding responsible pet ownership, and supporting consistent enforcement," she said.
The coalition urged stakeholders to view the proposed roundtable as a constructive step toward clarity, fairness, and unity, rather than a challenge to law or religion.
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