Recently, a piece of news caught my attention and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Cloakwork, a well-known Malaysian graffiti artist, shared on Instagram that one of his murals in Kuala Lumpur had been painted over by DBKL (Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur). His colorful, vibrant artwork was suddenly replaced with dull shades of grey or black - and he wasn’t happy. Honestly, I get why. Link to his instagram posting here.
Cloakwork’s work is everywhere. From Gombak to the heart of the city, his murals bring energy and character to otherwise lifeless walls. They’re not just spray paint on concrete, they’re visual expressions of culture, identity, and youth. Seeing them removed feels like a loss for the city’s creative spirit.
But at the same time, I find myself torn.
A Tricky Situation
While I personally admire Cloakwork’s work... it’s bright, fun, and makes KL feel alive, I also understand why DBKL might have taken action. From the city’s point of view, allowing unauthorized street art to exist unchecked could lead to a slippery slope. If everyone started painting murals wherever they pleased, it might blur the line between art and public vandalism. Suddenly, what started as a creative movement could turn into chaos, with ads, random tags, and graffiti popping up without permission.
There needs to be some form of control, right?
Imagine if I had a product, and I painted a beautiful mural promoting it on a public wall, no permit, no approval. It may look nice, but technically it’s still an advertisement in disguise. I’d be benefiting commercially without going through proper channels.
So What’s the Solution?
I believe there’s a middle ground here.
Artists like Cloakwork should be celebrated, not censored. But at the same time, the city has a responsibility to maintain order. The best way forward might be collaboration. DBKL could work with artists, not against them by offering official spaces, licenses, or community mural programs where creativity can flourish legally.
Cloakwork’s frustration is valid, and so is DBKL’s concern. But instead of being at odds, maybe it’s time for these two worlds, art and governance... to meet halfway.
Let’s Talk — Respectfully
This issue has already sparked heated debates on social media. I’ve seen many Malaysians expressing disappointment and frustration at DBKL’s decision. And that’s fair, we all have the right to voice our opinions. Malaysia is a country that values freedom of speech, and healthy discussions like this are important.
But let’s not let our differences turn into division.
Let’s have respectful, meaningful conversations, not just arguments. If anything, this can be a starting point for better collaboration between creatives and city officials. And with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 around the corner, what better time to reflect on how art and urban development can coexist?
A Final Thought
To Cloakwork: I love your work. It adds color and soul to Kuala Lumpur. I hope this experience opens up doors for dialogue and official collaborations that empower more artists like you to keep creating, without the fear of being erased.
And to the public: Let’s keep this conversation going. What kind of city do we want? One that’s clean and regulated? Or one that’s bold, expressive, and full of life? I believe we can have both, if we listen, collaborate, and act with respect.
Peace out.