KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 – Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the National Registration Department (JPN), carried out a special enforcement operation known as “Op Lens: Ulat Foto” around popular public areas near KLCC on Saturday night.
The operation, which began at 9.00pm on June 20, focused on tackling unauthorized photography services being offered at public locations including Pintasan Saloma, Jalan Ampang and Jalan P. Ramlee. These areas are among the city’s busiest tourist and visitor hotspots, attracting large crowds daily.
According to DBKL, the integrated operation was aimed at addressing the growing issue of individuals providing photography services without the necessary permits or approvals. Such activities have become increasingly common in public spaces, particularly around iconic landmarks where visitors often seek professional photographs.
During the operation, DBKL issued a total of 19 compound notices to Malaysian citizens who were found conducting photography services without authorization. Enforcement officers also carried out 32 seizures involving various photography-related equipment, including mobile phones, lighting equipment, gimbals and other tools used to offer photography services.
Of the 32 seizure cases recorded, 13 involved foreign nationals. Enforcement action was taken under the Hawker Licensing By-Laws (Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur) 2016, which regulate business and service activities conducted in public areas within the city.
Meanwhile, officers from PDRM and JPN conducted identification checks on 32 individuals during the operation. The inspections focused on verifying personal identification documents in accordance with the National Registration Act 1959.
DBKL stated that unauthorized photography services in public spaces can create various issues, including safety risks, disturbances to visitors and obstructions to pedestrian and traffic flow. The local authority stressed that enforcement efforts are necessary to ensure public areas remain orderly, safe and comfortable for both residents and tourists.
All equipment seized during the operation has been transferred to the DBKL Seizure Storage Facility for documentation and further investigation. Authorities will continue to monitor public locations and conduct periodic enforcement operations to curb illegal activities that violate city regulations.
DBKL reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order and urged members of the public to report any concerns or complaints through its official communication channels. The local authority said cooperation from the public remains important in ensuring Kuala Lumpur’s public spaces remain safe, well-managed and free from unauthorized commercial activities.
The latest operation reflects the continued efforts of DBKL and its enforcement partners to uphold city regulations while protecting the interests of visitors and ensuring smoother movement in high-traffic areas around the capital.
