Help on the way

Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) can move in to clean up the hoarder’s house that is affecting neighbours.

City councillor Lim Yi Wei said MBPJ would work closely with the hoarder and carry out gotong-royong sessions to help her clean up her house.

She said the council would first spray pesticide several days before moving in to clear the junk.

“The neighbours’ intention is to help this person clean up her house.

“We may also work with other authorities such as the Fire and Rescue Department in case we happen to detect a snake or other small wild animals.

“We will also get psychological assistance and social welfare volunteers to help her manage with her condition,” she added.

MBPJ Waste Management and Public Cleansing Department director Lee Lih Shyan said the council could intervene when the issue became a public nuisance.

“The council’s waste management department will help clear the waste when it is stored outside the house.

“If the rubbish is stored in the compound, the council’s Health Department would go in to clear it up.

“It is a public nuisance because the trash is emitting smell and attracting pests and rodents,” he said.

One of her neighbours  said the hoarder was usually not approachable.

“But she talks to me sometimes. Based on our conversation with her, she expressed her willingness to allow someone to clean her house.

“We are looking forward to helping her as we are all neighbours,” she said.