KUALA LUMPUR, August 19 – As Greater Kuala Lumpur’s population continues to surge, now estimated to be at over 8.8 million people, the challenges of urban living are becoming increasingly complex. Among these is the need for responsible and humane management of stray animals, a pressing issue in many rapidly expanding urban areas. This past weekend, The RiverCity, under the stewardship of Low Yat Group, took significant strides in addressing these concerns with the Pawsitive Fiesta—a community-centred initiative that seamlessly blends placemaking with compassionate pet advocacy. Through a thoughtful, pet-friendly strategy, The RiverCity is establishing itself as a key player in tackling urban issues by fostering responsible pet ownership and promoting sustainable, humane solutions to stray overpopulation.
Pawsitive Fiesta, held on 17th and 18th August 2024 at The RiverCity, Jalan Ipoh, was more than just a community gathering—it served as a meaningful opportunity to raise awareness about humane stray management and responsible pet ownership. Organised in collaboration with the Animal Kindness Coalition (AKC) and other key partners, the event provided a dynamic platform for educating and engaging the public on the importance of humane methods like Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage (TNRM) in controlling stray populations. Through interactive workshops, expert talks, and community involvement, AKC brought vital issues of animal welfare to the forefront, driving home the message that responsible and compassionate care is crucial to solving stray overpopulation.
The RiverCity: A Hub for Urban Pet Living
The RiverCity is more than just a lifestyle hub; it represents a thoughtful approach to urban development in Kuala Lumpur. Managed by Low Yat Group, The RiverCity is undergoing significant asset enhancements to become a pet-friendly destination, integrating more pet-centric amenities and attracting businesses that cater to pet owners. This transformation reflects a broader trend in urban living where pets are increasingly seen as integral to community life, contributing to the vibrancy and inclusivity of urban spaces.
“Placemaking is not just about building spaces; it’s about creating environments that resonate with the people who use them, enhancing their quality of life and fostering a sense of belonging. The RiverCity is a prime example of how we are applying these principles. It’s not just a lifestyle hub; it’s a space designed with the community at its heart, where people, pets, and families can come together in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our involvement in Pawsitive Fiesta and our collaboration with the Animal Kindness Coalition reflect this commitment,” said Chan Wai Yee, Senior Marketing Manager at The RiverCity.
Embracing Humane Stray Management
Traditional methods of stray control, such as catch and kill, are increasingly viewed as inhumane and ineffective. Penang’s successful implementation of the TNRM program marks a significant shift towards more compassionate and sustainable practices. This approach, supported by animal welfare advocates and local governments, is central to AKC’s mission of creating a stray-free Selangor, serving as a model for humane stray management across the region.
“Part of the ‘M’ in TNRM is about nurturing responsible pet ownership within our community. Responsibility brings along the conscience to do good, to be kind, and to be mindful of others—both human and animal. Events like this are a platform for us to share that message and encourage a community culture where we all take care of each other and our environment,” said Asther Lau, President and Co-Founder of Animal Kindness Coalition.
“We believe the strays on our streets deserve better lives. They’re already struggling—constantly searching for their next meal, trying to find a place to rest only to be chased away. Their lives, living among us, are full of suffering. But we realized that we can do something to help because we have the means to make a difference,” added Lau.
Pawsitive Fiesta: A Gathering for Urban Pet Enthusiasts
Pawsitive Fiesta, held over the weekend at The RiverCity, brought together pet owners, local communities, and stakeholders to explore the evolving landscape of urban pet living. A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Paws Trail, a newly developed trail offering a safe and welcoming space for pets and their owners while doubling as a community walking path. Upon completion of the second phase along Sungai Batu, the trail will extend to approximately 2 kilometres, further underscoring The RiverCity’s commitment to enhancing pet-friendly environments in urban settings.
This community event is part of AKC’s Responsible Pet Ownership awareness project, which aims to foster compassion and responsibility in the care of pets and the management of stray populations. AKC emphasises collaboration between government bodies, the private sector, animal lovers, and the general public.
The event featured a wide range of activities, including a fashion show where pets and their owners paraded in coordinated outfits, and an adoption drive in partnership with Second Chance Animal Society, providing opportunities for attendees to give a forever home to animals in need.
Attendees were also captivated by a Police K9 Unit demonstration from the Criminal Investigation Department of Bukit Aman (Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Bukit Aman). The handlers showcased the incredible skills of their K9 partners, particularly in drug detection. The crowd witnessed firsthand how these specially trained dogs are able to detect even trace amounts of illicit substances. The demonstration also highlighted the broader scope of the K9 unit’s work in tracking and public safety, underscoring the invaluable contribution of these animals to society.
Dr. Ima, a veterinarian, delivered an insightful talk on responsible pet ownership, emphasising the critical role of neutering in controlling stray populations and preventing overbreeding. She stressed the importance of neutering as a cornerstone of preventative care, alongside vaccinations, to promote healthier pets and reduce the number of unwanted animals. Additionally, Dr. Ima gave a live demonstration of the Sertu ritual, a Muslim purification practice, providing both an educational and cultural lens on pet care within the community.
Additionally, Paws Rehab offered valuable insights into the rehabilitation of injured or aging pets, focusing on mobility and the management of conditions like Patella Luxation, Hip Dysplasia, and Osteoarthritis. Their demonstrations of Laser Therapy, Electromagnetic Field Therapy, and Hydrotherapy, along with practical home exercises and pain management techniques, offered attendees essential tools to improve their pets’ well-being. Yewy Ong, a professional dog trainer, conducted an engaging session on establishing structure and boundaries for adopted and fostered dogs, while Greg Tan, a professional pet groomer, shared expert grooming tips on coat care, nail clipping, and daily maintenance routines, equipping pet owners with the necessary skills needed to keep their pets healthy, comfortable, and well-groomed.
Visitors were also able to explore a curated marketplace with a variety of pet-related products and services, while a photography booth offered opportunities to capture special moments with their pets.
Promoting a Pet-Friendly Urban Environment
The importance of pets in urban settings is increasingly recognised by property developers and businesses. Initiatives aimed at creating more green spaces, pet-friendly housing, and dedicated areas for pets to play and socialise are on the rise. With hundreds of attendees across two days, Pawsitive Fiesta exemplified The RiverCity’s and AKC’s shared mission of fostering a culture of compassion, responsible pet ownership, and humane solutions for managing stray populations. The event’s success highlights the growing importance of pet-friendly urban spaces in enhancing the quality of life for both people and their pets.
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