IT IS not a new problem.
The area surrounding the vicinity of the Twin Towers and KLCC has been claimed by photographers as their exclusive turf, ie only they are allowed to take pictures there.
Anyone fishing out a camera or handphone is asked to cease and desist by these photographers who insist visitors to the iconic tourist site use their services instead.
The problem had been highlighted before but it seems the problem persists. The ill-feeling surrounding this issue is compounded by the fact that many, if not all, of the photographers-cum-extortionists are foreigners.
Shared by X user IAN (@IANZAINAL), many netizens expressed discontent over the state of affairs.
One said that it was nonsense to make up the rules just earn a quick buck, while another said they should be rounded up like rats if the allegations are true.
One said proof was required for a solid case to stand with another suggesting a means of capturing the misdeeds on camera.
One said that these photographers treated the city centre as their own private studio, even causing traffic problems just to take photos.
But what seems to really get the goat of many local netizens is that these illegal photographers were mainly Indonesians.
Fact that visitors were forced to use their services made it unpalatable, with many saying it spoilt the reputation of the country.
Many were unamused by their extortionate behaviour and tagged the authorities, specifically DBKL as well as the Federal Territories Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
What seems to annoy netizens is that it is not legitimate work that these foreigners seek but an opportunity to take advantage of the situation. This sentiment was summed up a netizen who said these foreigners come over to “paw” (extort) innocent bystanders.
This is symptomatic of many Malaysians’ fear of being overrun by illegal foreigners. Not only are these foreigners undocumented but they are a law unto themselves, making a visit to KL’s most famous landmark unpleasant and unwelcoming.
This may not be a new problem but it is turning into one that is gripping the whole country – just what are we to do with illegal, undocumented foreigners seeking to earn an unscrupulous buck or two?
FocusM urges the authorities to take the matter seriously as it is not just about fleecing tourists but a sign of not being in control of one’s own backyard. – Nov 5, 2024
Main image: The Star
