Traders also call for stricter enforcement, public outreach as littering remains common
TOURIST hotspots across Johor will undergo intensive cleaning and monitoring in conjunction with Visit Johor 2026.
Johor Solid Waste Manage-ment and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) director Zainal Fitri Ahmad said the operation was aimed at improving the cleanliness and image of public areas across the state.
“This is not just about cleaning public spaces, but also about creating greater public awareness on the importance of maintaining cleanliness.
“We hope the public, traders and visitors will work together to keep Johor clean and comfortable for everyone,” he said at the launch of the operation at Jalan Meldrum in Johor Baru.
Zainal Fitri reminded the public not to litter, adding that offenders could be fined up to RM2,000 and ordered to carry out up to 12 hours of community service.
About 30 SWCorp workers have been stationed at Jalan Meldrum for the operation.
Cleaning and monitoring activities will also be carried out at Jalan Segget and Legoland.
Almost 100 personnel are involved statewide in the initiative focusing on tourist attractions and high-traffic public areas.
Among the measures are deep cleaning works, patrols, monitoring activities and public awareness campaigns through community outreach and social media.
Traders and workers in the area welcomed the operation, saying cleaner surroundings would improve the experience for customers and tourists.
Cashier Yap Yoke Lan, 40, said littering was still common despite rubbish bins being provided.
“Customers usually leave tissue paper, food packaging and plastic on the tables instead of throwing them away properly.
“Some people also throw cigarette butts on the floor even though bins are nearby.”
Yap said cleaner surroundings would help attract more customers, and supported stricter enforcement, stating that heavier fines could discourage people from littering.
Majuri Asnion, 60, said cleanliness around the restaurant he worked in improved over the years, but littering remained a problem.
He said food wrappers, drink bottles and cigarette butts were among the most common rubbish found in the area.
“If people continue throwing rubbish everywhere, the area will become dirty again no matter how often it is cleaned,” he said.
Majuri urged the authorities to continue educating the public on cleanliness instead of relying solely on enforcement.
Stall owner N. Jamunah, 55, said cleaner surroundings would create a better impression on visitors and benefit businesses in the area.
“When the area is clean, customers feel more comfortable visiting.
“I support stricter fines because some people still throw rubbish carelessly even when bins are provided,” she said.
