a day ago
KLCC street photographers fined RM2,000 each
KUALA LUMPUR: Nearly 30 freelance street photographers offering on-the-spot photo services to locals and tourists at KLCC were issued compound notices on Sunday night, each hit with a stiff fine of RM2,000 for operating without a valid permit.
Authorities said the photographers were operating without valid permits in a public space.
The action was taken following growing complaints and a recent misunderstanding involving some of the individuals, which went viral on social media, Harian Metro reported.
The operation, involving personnel from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Immigration Department (JIM), and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), saw nearly 30 individuals compounded under By-law 3(1) of the Federal Territory Hawkers Licensing By-Laws 2016.
These freelance photographers are known for offering smartphone photography services at busy tourist spots, particularly around the KLCC area, often taking pictures of visitors with the Petronas Twin Towers and other landmarks in the background.
One of the photographers, who declined to be named, said this was the first time they had received a fine for offering such services.
"The notice says RM2,000. That's a lot. If this keeps happening, I'll have to find another job," he said, adding that enforcement officers had mentioned the possibility of a future permit system.
He also addressed the recent viral incident, saying it stemmed from a language barrier between a photographer and a foreign tourist.
"I wasn't there, but from what I heard, it was just a misunderstanding. Now, we're all affected by it," he said.
Despite some resistance during the operation, officers were able to manage the situation professionally, and no serious incidents were reported.
Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director Wan Mohammed Saupee Wan Yusoff was present during the operation.
Authorities are reportedly looking into formal licensing mechanisms to regulate freelance photography services in public areas.
