KUALA LUMPUR – The Havoc Food Festival, which has been running since January 9 at the Sama Square car park in Setapak, has been ordered to cease operations immediately by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) following complaints of severe traffic congestion affecting local residents.
Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said in a statement that his office had received numerous complaints from residents since the event began.
Nak pergi Havoc Food Fest, kau tak perlu masuk sampai dalam Sama Square nak parking, memang tiada parking! Kau park je road side kat luar tu, Event besar takda parking area even Sama Square pun tutup parking dia, Cun Cun corner pun.
— AzrulAhmad (@_AzrulAhmad_) January 9, 2025
Sini semua jalan masuk residen. pic.twitter.com/qSXlYAHNdT
According to Nik Nazmi, the festival was also being held without a valid entertainment licence from DBKL.
“Due to the extreme traffic congestion that has disrupted residents in the area, my office followed up with the authorities to take action.
“As a result, DBKL has instructed the organisers of the Havoc Food Festival to halt the event starting today,” he said.
Nik Nazmi also reminded event organisers in Setiawangsa to adhere to regulations and prioritise public welfare before planning any activities that might disturb the community.
“Organisers are reminded not to repeat this mistake. Any event must take into account the local situation and obtain the necessary approvals from the authorities,” he emphasised.
Earlier, social media posts by Setapak residents went viral, claiming that the Havoc Food Festival, which was set to run until January 12, had caused significant traffic problems in the area.
In an Instagram post, the organisers issued an apology for the cancellation of the event.
In an Instagram post, the organisers issued an apology for the cancellation of the event.
“The Havoc team would like to inform everyone that all activities related to HFF have been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances,” the ogranisers said.
“We deeply regret any inconvenience caused and sincerely apologise to all concerned. – January 11, 2025