Sunway Square Mall has announced an immediate reversal of its pet-friendly policy, banning animals from its indoor premises just weeks after its grand opening.
The decision follows the Selangor state government’s reaffirmation of a long-standing directive prohibiting pets within indoor shopping complexes to ensure public hygiene and comfort.
State local government and tourism committee chairman Ng Suee Lim had reminded mall operators that Selangor maintains a strict no-pet policy for indoor shopping areas.
While the mall originally launched with a pet-friendly identity, the practice drew significant public feedback. Reports said many visitors, particularly from the Muslim community, expressed discomfort over pets in common indoor areas, citing religious sensitivities and hygiene concerns.
Despite the indoor ban, Sunway Square Mall said pets are still welcome in its outdoor spaces.
It said pets are permitted at Squarrel’s Playground, an outdoor pet-friendly park located at Sunway South Quay Lake.
Pet owners may still use the mall’s car parks at levels B3 and B4, but must transit directly between the car park and the outdoor zone with guidance from the mall’s security team.
All enclosed indoor areas, including retail floors and dining sections, are now strictly off-limits to pets.
In a statement on its social media channels, the mall management apologised for any inconvenience the sudden shift may cause, saying it would comply with the state directive while continuing to serve all visitors with care and respect.
