“Ensuring tourists’ safety” – Hannah Yeoh Personally ‘Turun Padang’ to Address KLCC Photo Tout Issue

A calm Kuala Lumpur night took on a different tone when Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh stepped out for a late-night “patrol” around the Petronas Twin Towers.

The area, especially near KLCC, is usually alive with tourists capturing memories. However, it has recently drawn complaints regarding illegal street photographers who are allegedly pushy or disruptive.

Observing the hotspots

In a Facebook Live last night (30 March), Yeoh is seen arriving dressed simply in a black T-shirt, accompanied by Kuala Lumpur’s mayor, Fadlun Mak Ujud, and enforcement officers from Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). Together, they stood at a busy intersection along Jalan Ampang, a known hotspot for freelance photographers offering quick photo services with the iconic towers as a backdrop.

Yeoh spent over an hour observing the area personally. Interestingly, the night was quieter than expected, and no street photographers were spotted during the walkabout. Nevertheless, the visit served a clear purpose; Yeoh emphasised that the issue remains a major concern following recent reports of tourist harassment.

“I was there for over an hour observing the area. We want to make sure the tourists are safe and not exploited,” Yeoh stated in a Facebook post today (31 March).

Enhanced security measures

Earlier, Yeoh had announced plans for DBKL to install additional CCTV cameras in the vicinity to improve safety and deter illicit activities. This move follows a troubling incident on 22 March, when five individuals were detained after a violent altercation near Persiaran KLCC.

The dispute reportedly began when a tourist was assaulted. A vendor who attempted to intervene was then attacked from behind with a weapon, sustaining head injuries. Two men were injured in the fray, requiring two and seven stitches, respectively.

Prior to this, DBKL officers had conducted multiple raids in the area in response to mounting complaints about the influx of illegal photographers.

For many, KLCC is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a shared public space. Ongoing efforts like these aim to ensure the area remains safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone walking beneath the glow of the twin towers.

What do you guys think of this? Share your thoughts with us in the comments. 

Also read: Photographer Near KLCC Tries to Charge Woman RM650 for 65 Photos, Here’s Her Response