They have advertising signs hung around their necks and bottles of pickled jambu, mango and other pickled fruit options.

It's pretty tempting to wind down your window and buy from these vendors especially on a hot day but be warned, you could end up being fined RM2,000 if the authorities catch you in the act.

A warning by the cops

Johor police chief Comm Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said that this type of trade was illegal and endangered both the peddler and the buyer.

"Through Ops Kesedaran, the Johor police have identified 52 locations where these types of traffic light vendors operate around the state.

"According to the law, not only can the vendor be fined for the act but the buyer can also be fined RM2,000 for buying from them," he said as reported by Kosmo.

Reports detail that the number of traffic light vendors have been on the rise especially with many finding themselves jobless due to the current economic situation.

In fact, a recent article by Melaka Hari Ini also revealed how one vendor there makes RM600,000 a month from selling these asam delights.

The article said that the vendor admitted to selling 15,000 bottles a week which is pretty gila lah.

We don't know if that figure is sustainable but if it is, it could also translate to why so many vendors are hogging our traffic lights these days.

A danger to themselves and other road users

We truly empathise with the plight of the vendors but the right thing to do would be to set up a proper stall to sell their wares.

An article by The Star quoting a Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) official said that temporary six-month licences could be attained by these traders.

“Each stall is allowed a foldable table and a makeshift 8ft by 8ft tent. No fee will be charged for the licence.

“Traders need to find a suitable place and clean up at the end of their business day," said the official.

Sounds like a pretty decent deal to us.

As for buyers, other than safety issues, they should also be concerned with matters related to hygiene and the lack of contact tracing when purchasing food using this method.

Looks like the authorities are sympathetic and are willing to work with the vendors involved so we suggest that they legitimise their trade lah.