Animal Kindness Coalition, together with a coalition of animal welfare groups, community organisations, private sector stakeholders, and concerned members of the public, supports the call for a roundtable discussion proposed by the Selangor State Government through the Local Government and Tourism Committee Chairman on the management of pets in malls and selected public spaces in Selangor.

1. Why the Roundtable Matters

As Malaysians, citizens have the right to participate in discussions on public policies that affect our daily lives. Seeking clarity through dialogue:

• Does not override laws, religious principles, or enforcement
• Ensures policies are understood, consistently implemented, and enforced fairly
• Promotes mutual respect, social harmony, and unity in a diverse society, reminding us that our differences should bring us together, not divide us.
• Encourages all stakeholders to work collaboratively to find solutions that respect everyone’s rights, beliefs, and responsibilities

Structured dialogue is a recognized tool in good governance. It allows all stakeholders, including local councils, religious authorities, business operators, animal advocates, and citizens to clarify rules, define boundaries, and prevent misunderstandings.

From our perspective, this matter should be approached as an issue of good governance and social harmony, rather than political positioning. In a diverse society, constructive dialogue allows differing concerns to be addressed responsibly and helps ensure that unity is strengthened, not strained, when navigating complex public issues.

2. Legal Perspective

Some have argued that discussion is unnecessary because existing laws are “clear and final.” However, Choo Dee Wei, a practising Malaysian lawyer, advises:

“Enforcement of laws is critical. But not blind enforcement or worse still enforcement based on misinterpretation or misconception. Hence the need for transparency and consultation. Without structured engagement, policies can be misinterpreted, enforcement may be inconsistent, and unintended legal risks can arise. Open, matured and civilised dialogues are crucial in moving all of us forward.”

3. Civic & Governance Perspective

As members of the public and civil society, we respect existing laws, religious considerations, and enforcement authorities. At the same time, it is reasonable in a democratic society for citizens to seek clarity when public policies are interpreted or applied differently across situations.

Seeking clarification through dialogue does not amount to defying the law. On the contrary, it reflects responsible civic participation and trust in governance processes. A roundtable discussion allows real-world concerns to be surfaced, interpretations to be aligned, and expectations to be communicated more clearly.

Good leadership is strengthened through engagement and transparency, not by closing the door to discussion. In this context, the call for a roundtable discussion reflects a constructive and inclusive approach aimed at consistency, understanding, and social harmony, rather than challenging legal or religious frameworks.

4. Benefits for Everyone

Clear guidelines developed through consultation benefit all members of society:

• For Religious authorities and Muslims - by safeguarding halal compliance and cleanliness
• For Business owners and malls - by providing certainty and preventing violations
• For Pet owners - by understanding responsibilities and lawful boundaries
• For Enforcement officers - by reducing ambiguity and disputes

5. Collective Support

This initiative is not the concern of a single organisation or community. It reflects the voices of Malaysians and Selangorians from diverse background:

• NGOs and animal welfare organisations
• Community groups and concerned residents
• Businesses and private entities operating in public spaces
• Pet owners and advocates for responsible pet ownership

who share a common desire for clarity, harmony, and responsible policy-making.

Together, we affirm that dialogue strengthens governance, promotes social cohesion, and ensures that policies are practical, inclusive, and sustainable.

6. Closing Statement

Animal Kindness Coalition & all compassionate Malaysians urges all stakeholders to approach the roundtable not as a challenge to law or religion, but as a responsible, participatory, and constructive process. Through respectful engagement and collaboration, Selangor can move forward with clarity, fairness, and social harmony for all.