In the suit, Noraseela argued that MBPJ’s Licensing of Dogs and Kennel Establishments By‑Law 2007 contravenes federal legislation, including the Local Government Act 1976 and the Strata Management Act.

Section 8(2) of the by‑law prohibits residents from keeping dogs in apartment units under MBPJ’s jurisdiction.

Noraseela, a resident of a condominium complex here, argued that the council had no power in law to impose such a sweeping restriction.

She claimed the ban infringes the rights of pet owners to fully utilise and enjoy their property, saying there was no evidence that dogs or other pets had caused disturbance to neighbours.

Noraseela, who represented the country at the 2012 London Olympics in the women’s 400m hurdles, is seeking a court declaration that the by‑law is unlawful and unenforceable.

Lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan, who is representing Noraseela, said the blanket ban was a clear case of a local council acting beyond its legal powers. 

He said that instead of regulating responsibly, the council imposed an unlawful and arbitrary blanket ban “with no evidence, proportionality, or any lawful authority”. 

“Such overreach is legally indefensible, and when councils place convenience above constitutional rights, the courts must intervene.”