Two local beverage traders sustained serious head injuries after being assaulted by a group of alleged illegal photographers at the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC) on Sunday night. The violent confrontation, which reportedly began as a dispute involving foreign tourists, has ignited fresh concerns over safety and the national image at the iconic landmark.
The incident was brought to light by social media influencer and former educator Mohd Fadli Salleh, who shared details of the attack on Facebook. According to his account, the group of illegal photographers acted aggressively, escalating a verbal argument with tourists into a physical fight. The two victims, who operate a “balang air” (water container) stall nearby, were caught in the crossfire while attempting to intervene and pacify the situation.
Witness reports suggest that the victims were swarmed and attacked from behind by dozens of individuals. One trader required seven stitches for a head wound, while the other received two stitches. Beyond the physical trauma, the assailants also destroyed the victims’ business equipment, including their water containers, before fleeing the scene.
A formal police report has been lodged regarding the assault and the resulting property damage. This latest outbreak of violence has amplified long-standing complaints from the public about the persistent presence of unauthorised photographers at KLCC. Critics argue that the group’s “bulletproof” reputation and intimidating tactics have gone unchecked for too long, posing a threat to both locals and visitors.
Community leaders and netizens are now urging the Royal Malaysia Police and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to take decisive action against these syndicates. Many expressed worries that such lawlessness at Malaysia’s premier tourist attraction could severely tarnish the country’s reputation. There is a growing call for a permanent enforcement presence to ensure that such “thug-like” behaviour is eradicated from the city centre.
