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CLOSE to 30 freelance street photographers operating near the Petronas Twin Towers were each issued RM2,000 compound fines on Sunday night for conducting business without a valid permit in a public area.
The joint operation, which involved officers from the Royal Malaysian Police, Immigration Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), was carried out in response to public complaints and a recent social media incident involving one of the photographers.
Harian Metro reported that the enforcement action was taken under By-law 3(1) of the Federal Territory Hawkers Licensing By-Laws 2016. The regulation prohibits individuals from trading or providing services in public spaces without authorisation.
These freelance photographers are known for offering quick smartphone photography services to locals and tourists, often capturing portraits with KL landmarks such as the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
One photographer, who asked not to be named, expressed dismay at the sudden crackdown.
“The notice says RM2,000. That’s a lot. If this keeps happening, I’ll have to find another job,” he said. He added that this was the first time he had been fined for providing the service, and that enforcement personnel had mentioned a possible permit system in the future.
He also referred to the recent viral video, which he said had been misunderstood.
“I wasn’t there, but from what I heard, it was just a misunderstanding due to a language barrier between a photographer and a foreign tourist. Now, we’re all affected by it,” he said.
Despite some initial resistance during the operation, enforcement officers were able to de-escalate the situation and no serious incidents were reported.
Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director Wan Mohammed Saupee Wan Yusoff was present during the enforcement action.
Authorities have since confirmed they are exploring formal licensing mechanisms to better regulate freelance photography services in public areas moving forward. - July 28, 2025