Street performances are usually a lively addition to any city—bringing entertainment, creativity, and sometimes even a little magic to public spaces.
But when foreigners start using them as a way to fund their travels, it doesn’t always sit well with the locals.
Recently, a video went viral showing a foreign couple, believed to be husband and wife, performing circus-like stunts in the middle of a busy street in Penang.
While they might have thought they were just putting on a show, many Malaysians saw it differently—calling out the act as disruptive, dangerous, and even disrespectful.
‘They’re no different from other 3rd world beggars’
The performance, which took place on a major road used daily by commuters, didn’t go down well with many online.
Social media users slammed the couple for endangering themselves and others, with some urging authorities like the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Immigration Department to step in.
Not the first time
This isn’t a one-off case. Similar incidents have happened before, with foreign travellers selling handmade souvenirs in places like Bukit Bintang and Chow Kit, hoping to fund their adventures while relying on the generosity of Malaysians.
While some may see it as harmless, many locals are growing frustrated with the trend of foreigners earning money informally on the streets.
