Multi-agency crackdown targets begging activities in Kuala Lumpur city centre
KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has intensified efforts to address begging activities in the capital through a coordinated enforcement operation involving multiple government agencies, resulting in action being taken against 25 individuals in several of the city’s busiest tourist and commercial districts.
The operation, conducted on the evening of July 16, focused on high-footfall locations including Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Alor and Leboh Pudu, areas that regularly attract both local residents and international visitors.
According to DBKL, the integrated operation began at 8pm and was carried out in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Immigration Department (JIM), National Registration Department (JPN), Social Welfare Department (JKM) and the National Security Council (MKN).
Authorities said enforcement measures were taken against a total of 25 individuals, comprising 13 Malaysian citizens and 12 foreign nationals, as part of ongoing initiatives to regulate public spaces and discourage organised or unauthorised begging activities.
Following screening and verification by the participating agencies, five individuals were referred for further action based on their respective circumstances.
Two individuals were handed over to the Immigration Department for immigration-related procedures, while another three were placed under the care of the Social Welfare Department, allowing welfare authorities to assess their needs and determine appropriate assistance or intervention.
DBKL said the operation reflects the importance of coordinated enforcement among federal and local agencies, with each organisation contributing according to its legal responsibilities and area of expertise.
The city authority emphasised that enforcement operations are intended not only to uphold municipal regulations but also to ensure that individuals requiring welfare support or immigration action are managed through the appropriate government channels.
As Kuala Lumpur continues to welcome large numbers of tourists and visitors, DBKL said maintaining public order, safety and a comfortable urban environment remains one of its key priorities.
The local authority added that it will continue working closely with enforcement agencies and social service departments to monitor areas frequently associated with begging activities and to carry out similar integrated operations when necessary.
DBKL also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation as part of broader efforts to preserve the capital’s cleanliness, security and public well-being while ensuring enforcement measures are supported by appropriate welfare and administrative follow-up where required.
