The general public is being asked to play an important role in maintaining public property from being damaged or stolen by irresponsible parties, said Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor.

It includes any form of sculptures and works of art that are placed around the city as decorative elements of the landscape.

KuNan said damaged infrastructure will not only be dangerous to the people nearby, including motorists and pedestrians, but also give a bad image to tourists.

"The citizens should act as the 'eyes and ears' to City Hall to address the issue of vandalism against publicproperty includingdecorative elements in this city," he said when launching a statue ofLatcartoon characters at Heritage Trail Route 2 here on Thursday.

Eleven characters designed by legendary cartoonist, Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid – orpopularyknown asLat- is being placed at selected locations along the Heritage Trail Route 2 that covers Jalan Melaka, Jalan Gereja and part of Jalan Raja Chulan.

The selection aims to inject cheerfulness to the people who use the route every day, as the characters havecolouredthe lives of Malaysians since the 60s.

KuNan also said the placement of the characters as a landmark to promote Malaysia’s harmonious multiracial society.

"Based on psychological studies, humans need a little injection of humor, relaxation, laughter, art and creative to treat stress from their daily lives.

"Kuala Lumpur has to maintain its status as a city that is a major tourist destination and ensure that its priorities are given not onlytothe comfort andsafety butto ensure it brings a memorable experience to tourists," he said.

He also informed that these statues are placed under the supervision of City Hall for maintenance and care.