"Must Obtain Approval" — DBKL Responds To Cloakwork's Murals Being Painted Over
DBKL said the murals were removed as part of a project to upgrade 21 bus stops and kiosks citywide.
Cover image via @cloakwork (Instagram)Street artist Cloakwork's murals on several Kuala Lumpur bus stops have been removed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), with the authorities stating that they were painted without official approval
According to a report by FMT, DBKL clarified that it had not received an official application from the artist and that the removal was part of routine maintenance.
Additionally, the city hall explained that one bus stop on Jalan Raja Azlan Shah (formerly Jalan Ipoh) was demolished entirely due to its poor condition, as repairing it was not economically feasible.
Cloakwork had earlier taken to Instagram to express his frustration over the removal, questioning DBKL's decision
He shared that his artwork was intended to brighten up neglected spaces and was disappointed to see them erased.
His comments sparked a broader discussion about public art and the role of city authorities in regulating artistic expression in public spaces.
Image via @cloakwork (Instagram)
Image via @cloakwork (Instagram)
DBKL further explained that the removals are part of a larger project to upgrade 21 bus stops and kiosks across the city in preparation for upcoming ASEAN meetings in KL this year
"DBKL appreciates the efforts by the city's art community to beautify KL. However, at the same time, any mural in a public space must obtain the approval of the local authority to ensure its suitability with the urban environment," the city hall said in a statement, reported FMT.
The city hall also welcomed discussions with artists and other stakeholders interested in contributing to KL's beautification through official and planned efforts.
Image via @cloakwork (Instagram)
