KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Hall sealed a mechanic shop to address mounting rental arrears and proceeded to auction off the goods inside.
According to a posting on its Facebook page, the Sessions Court had authorised City Hall to proceed with a public auction of the seized items from the shop.
"The Sessions Court has allowed a public auction to be held within the premises on seized goods belonging to tenants who have failed to settle their overdue rent to the mayor of Kuala Lumpur," the post stated.
City Hall officials said such measures were necessary to uphold fairness and accountability among tenants.
"Premises under the mayor of Kuala Lumpur are offered to the public at very reasonable rates, often more affordable than privately-owned premises.
"Despite this, some tenants have been negligent in paying their rent, compelling (City Hall) to take legal actions against them," it said.
City Hall urged all tenants with outstanding dues to settle their accounts promptly to avoid similar consequences.
It said it would not hesitate to take legal action to protect its interests and maintain equitable rental practices.