As Chairman of the Taman Tun Dr Ismail Residents Association (TTDIRA), I wish to express our position on Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) outdoor seating scheme (Permit Keja) along five-foot ways for food and beverage (F&B) outlets.
Not all locations in our neighbourhood are suitable for outdoor seating.
Walkway widths vary considerably, and unrestricted placement of tables and chairs will inevitably obstruct pedestrian movement, create safety risks and inconvenience residents, including the elderly and persons with disabilities.
To prevent abuse, I urge DBKL to identify designated areas in TTDI, set a strict limit on the number of tables and chairs permitted along five-foot ways, and significantly step up enforcement, particularly at night.
Traffic monitoring, cleanliness and public safety must be prioritised, alongside meaningful improvements to pedestrian walkways.
While we recognise that outdoor dining can support small businesses, being business-friendly must never mean relaxing enforcement.
Pedestrian access and public safety cannot be compromised.
Consistent implementation across all DBKL branches are essential so that rules are applied fairly and effectively.
Permits should only be issued after proper physical site inspections, with approved areas clearly marked.
Checks must be conducted during actual operating hours, including evenings and weekends.
Public complaints should supplement, not replace, DBKL’s own inspection and enforcement responsibilities.
A controlled pilot scheme in selected areas, followed by a transparent review, would be a more responsible way forward.
The five-foot way is public space.
It must remain accessible and safe for everyone, especially for persons with disabilities.
DBKL must strike a careful balance. Supporting small businesses is important, but not at the expense of safe, accessible public walkways for everyone.
ABU HAFIZ
Kuala Lumpur
