No pictures in public places

You may notice the pictures used as background on the top and bottom of this page are mostly of public places. There's one picture of a train station, a subway station, an alley in the city, even the front side of a historical famous building. I took those pictures freely with no fear or hesitation, not knowing of any restrictions or regulations prohibiting me to do so. If there's any, I'd be more than happy -well, resentful- to abide with such regulations. Rules are rules, right. But is there?

None that I know of. At least, at that moment. But again, if there's any, I feel the necessity to question its existence. Like recently, I was prohibited to take pictures of the sidewalk in front of the Jakarta Stock Exchange building. What?!

I understand perfectly if the restrictions of taking pictures applies say inside of a private building like an office or some sort. Take the New York Stock Exchange for an example. They have every right I think to claim all rights for any picture taken of its trading floor and in a way enforce restriction. It's inside the building. But if you can't take pictures at a legitimate public place like the side walk in front of a particular building that's a little bit absurd. 

I am aware that the Jakarta Stock Exchange has suffered a car bomb attack in the past and perhaps taking pictures restrictions are made to maintain a high alert on security and to minimize any threats possible. I respect that but it's the sidewalk. A sidewalk. Me, pedestrian. I walk on the sidewalk. Is the sidewalk not public property? 

What do you think readers?

Is there any city regulation regarding taking pictures in public places? Should there? I wonder if I can take pictures outside of any other stock exchange building. I think you can take pictures in front of the White House, right? I don't know. What about the Istana Negara? Oh lots of questions.