If we are honest with ourselves, Malaysia is still not ready to call itself a developed nation when it comes to environmental awareness. Many families who dine at fast-food outlets still leave behind trays of unfinished food and trash on their tables, assuming it is the staff’s responsibility to pick up after them. The mindset is simple: “I paid, so someone else will clean up.”
For now, the answer seems to be no. Some pet owners bring their dogs to public spaces but ignore their responsibilities when their pets urinate or defecate. Instead of cleaning up, they assume the mall cleaners will handle it. This is very different from what we see overseas, where dog owners are expected — and willing — to clean up after their pets.
Public toilets tell a similar story. Used tissues, sanitary products and even dirty diapers are often left behind, as if basic hygiene and respect for the next user are optional.
The debate over pet-friendly malls recently intensified after a newly opened shopping centre in Petaling Jaya reversed its policy within a week. Sunway Square Mall initially welcomed pets when it opened on Dec 11, but backlash from Muslim groups — along with intervention from the Selangor state government — led to an immediate policy change. The mall later announced that pets would no longer be allowed inside enclosed indoor areas to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all visitors.
Pet ownership in Malaysia has increased significantly since the Covid-19 pandemic, with a 2024 survey showing more than six in ten households now owning a pet. Most of these are cats, while around 15 per cent are dogs. However, dogs remain sensitive within the Malay-Muslim community — which makes up over 63 per cent of Malaysia’s population — as contact with dogs requires ritual cleansing.
The Muslim Consumer Association of Malaysia (PPIM) has since called for a boycott of pet-friendly malls, saying the presence of dogs shows disrespect towards Muslims. Its leader, Datuk Nadzim Johan, said a coordinated boycott could impact traders due to the strong purchasing power of Muslim consumers.
All of this points to one uncomfortable truth: before debating policies and lifestyle choices, Malaysians must first confront a deeper issue — our collective civic responsibility. Cleanliness, respect for shared spaces and consideration for others are not just rules; they are reflections of who we are as a society.
Until our attitudes change, the path to becoming a truly developed nation will remain unfinished.
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