KUALA LUMPUR City Hall (DBKL) has taken decisive action against illegal street photographers, known as mobilegraphers, and unlicensed vendors in a series of coordinated enforcement operations across popular tourist areas, including the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC) and Saloma Link, as well as at Pasar Pudu.
In a statement, DBKL confirmed that its KL Strike Force, in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the National Registration Department (JPN), carried out the operations to maintain order, public safety, and prevent disturbances in heavily frequented public areas.
“Strict action has been taken against unauthorised photographers as well as unlicensed water vendors around KLCC and Saloma Link. This operation was conducted to ensure that these popular tourist areas remain orderly, safe, and free from activities that disrupt public peace,” DBKL stated.
The enforcement actions saw 23 pieces of equipment belonging to illegal photographers seized, alongside the issuance of 23 compound notices under the Federal Territory Licensing By-Law 3(1) 2016.
In addition, an unlicensed mobile drink vendor was penalised and their equipment confiscated under the same legislation.
DBKL highlighted that the presence of PDRM and JPN during the operations strengthened security, verified identities, and ensured compliance with legal requirements.
The city council also urged the public to respect public spaces and refrain from conducting business without a valid licence, warning that strict enforcement measures would continue without compromise.
The crackdown comes amid reports that street photographers temporarily vanished upon noticing authorities, only to reappear shortly after and resume work despite having been issued fines.
Separately, in Pasar Pudu, Jalan Yew, DBKL conducted its 11th Special Market Action targeting illegal vendors selling wet goods, vegetables, fruits, and groceries without licences or in violation of licensing conditions.
The operation resulted in 17 compound notices issued for unlicensed trade, misuse of public parking areas as trading spaces, breaches of licence conditions, and obstructing pedestrian access. Eleven unlicensed vendors faced enforcement action, while a van used as a storage unit was towed.
DBKL affirmed that such operations would continue regularly to ensure Pasar Pudu remains orderly and safe, and encouraged the public to report violations through their online portal at [https://adukl.dbkl.gov.my/](https://adukl.dbkl.gov.my/). - November 22, 2025
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