DBKL Cracks Down on Street Acts

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has stepped up enforcement at the city’s flagship spots, KLCC and the Saloma Link, targeting unlicensed street performers known locally as ‘ulat foto’. Over the past week the agency issued 23 compounds and seized 28 pieces of equipment, ranging from cameras to portable lighting rigs. Officials say the crackdown is aimed at keeping the precincts tidy, safe and free from noise complaints, especially as tourist numbers rebound. While the move underscores DBKL’s commitment to order, it also raises concerns among the creative community about limited avenues for informal performance art in high‑traffic zones. The city warned that repeat offenders could face heavier fines or bans, prompting many performers to seek formal licences.

Performers must understand the new enforcement rules to avoid fines, while visitors can expect a cleaner, quieter experience at KL’s premier attractions. Businesses operating nearby will also benefit from reduced disruptions, and local authorities aim to set a precedent for orderly public spaces across Malaysia.

The crackdown signals a shift towards stricter regulation of informal economies in Malaysia’s urban centres. By prioritising order and tourist comfort, DBKL hopes to boost the city’s global image, but it also sparks debate over creative freedom and the need for clearer licensing pathways for street artists.