RM2,000 Fine: Authorities Target Unlicensed Photo Touts at KLCC

RM2,000 Fine: Authorities Target Unlicensed Photo Touts at KLCC

KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 — Nearly 30 freelance photographers operating near KLCC were each fined RM2,000 last night for working without valid permits, according to the New Straits Times.‍

Local
Local

KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 — Nearly 30 freelance photographers operating near KLCC were each fined RM2,000 last night for working without valid permits, according to the New Straits Times.

The enforcement action followed public complaints and a recent viral incident involving a photographer and a foreign tourist.

The joint operation was carried out by officers from the Royal Malaysia Police, Immigration Department, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

The fines were issued under By-law 3(1) of the Federal Territory Hawkers Licensing By-Laws 2016, which governs unlicensed street trading.

These photographers typically offer smartphone photography services to tourists, often taking shots with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers as a backdrop.

One photographer, who requested anonymity, said it was his first time being fined and expressed worry about the impact on his livelihood. He noted that enforcement officers mentioned the potential for a permit system to regulate such services in the future.

Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director Wan Mohammed Saupee Wan Yusoff was present during the operation, which proceeded largely without incident, despite minor resistance from some individuals.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa has urged the public not to engage with or feel pressured by these unlicensed photography services, as part of efforts to maintain public order around KLCC.

A street photo tout captures a moment for a visitor near KLCC, Kuala Lumpur. November 22, 2024.— Picture by Raymond Manuel

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