Kuching Authorities Say No to ‘Maui Wowie’ Street Sign Stunts, Fine RM1,500

Kuching residents are being urged to think twice before taking part in a risky new TikTok trend that has caught the attention of local authorities. The trend, set to Kid Cudi’s “Maui Wowie,” shows people hanging from street signs and lamp posts, and these stunts have prompted the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) to step in.

Photo via Facebook (Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU)

In a Facebook post on 12 November, DBKU revealed that it had identified videos of three individuals climbing onto public roadside structures in an attempt to join the viral craze. The city hall warned that such behaviour is not just dangerous but also potentially damaging to public property and harmful to Kuching’s image.

“DBKU takes these actions seriously. They endanger personal safety and can also damage public property, reflecting poorly on the city,” the statement read.

Authorities have pointed out that participants in the trend could be charged under By-Law 22(1)(b) of the Local Authorities (Cleanliness) By-Laws 1999, which forbids placing any materials, including stickers or posters, on road signs without permission. Offenders may face fines of RM1,500 for a first offence, with penalties increasing for repeat violations, or even imprisonment of up to nine months per subsequent offence.

DBKU has also lodged a police report regarding the individuals’ “inappropriate and improper behaviour,” signaling that further investigation under public order laws is underway. The city hall stressed that such stunts are a breach of social etiquette and will not be tolerated. They urged the public to act responsibly and respect public facilities.

The warning echoes similar advisories overseas. Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) recently cautioned social media users against hanging from traffic lights or street signs. They reminded the public that “fun’s fun, but our road infrastructure isn’t a playground. It helps facilitate travel and keeps everyone safe. Please don't use them as props for social media. Let’s keep our roads safe.”

DBKU concluded by appealing for community cooperation to maintain a clean, safe, and liveable Kuching, emphasizing that respecting public spaces is everyone’s responsibility.