Clarification of DBKL’s Enforcement

A recent enforcement operation by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) on business signboards had no political motives, according to an advisory board member.

Denial of External Political Influence

Andre Lai, an advisor to the city, explained that the operation, conducted on November 21 across the capital’s parliamentary constituencies, had no connection to former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s remarks about the use of Malay language on business signs. Lai also rejected claims that DBKL targeted Chinese-owned businesses specifically.

Enforcement Followed Established Guidelines

“DBKL conducts all enforcement strictly following established guidelines and plans,” Lai stated. “Our actions are not influenced by political commentary or outside pressures.” The operation on November 21 addressed businesses with non-compliant signboards, including those in Bangladeshi, Korean, and Arabic languages. It was not focused solely on Mandarin-language signs.

Transparency in Communication

Lai emphasized that businesses had received a seven-day notice before DBKL took enforcement action. He added that DBKL would continue providing updates about their enforcement activities through their social media channels.

Critique of Political Manipulation of Language Issues

Lai criticized the political exploitation of language issues, calling it “irresponsible.” “Kuala Lumpur is a city of diversity where various ethnic communities live together harmoniously,” he said. Lai urged the public to focus on critical issues like improving the city’s infrastructure instead of getting caught in divisive debates about language.