Malaysia Mall Bans Pets After Public Backlash

A major new mall in Malaysia has reversed its pet-friendly policy just days after opening, following strong public criticism. Sunway Square Mall in Selangor opened on December 12. It initially allowed pets inside. But on Thursday, the mall announced a ban. Pets are now prohibited from all enclosed retail areas. The change came after an online backlash. The reaction highlights ongoing sensitivities around dogs in public in Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country. In Islam, dogs are traditionally considered ritually unclean. The mall's new policy restricts pets to a designated outdoor zone. They may also use supervised routes through the basement car park. The mall has not commented further on its decision. The incident shows the challenge businesses face in balancing modern pet-owner demands with deep-rooted cultural and religious norms.