A one-day operation against litterbugs in Klang saw nine smokers fined RM10 on the spot.
Under Ops Kutu, the offenders were caught red-handed throwing cigarette butts on five-foot ways outside shops, said Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) Corporate Communications Department director Norfiza Mahfiz.
She said the offences were committed at and around Jalan Pos Baru on Sept 14.
Norfiza said MBDK introduced the RM10 fine in January 2006 for those who littered on walkways, including the act of discarding sweet wrappers.
Councillor Aziz Khan Muhammed Ali said residents should know better than to litter as it had been two decades since the rule had come into effect.
He said the city council had over the years informed tour agents, e-hailing drivers and restaurateurs to promote the anti-littering campaign.
“Cigarette butts and small plastic wrappers make up about half of the litter on roads, which gives the city a bad image,” he said.
“Sweeping up litter on road pavements and other public places is a manual task requiring additional manpower and costs,” he stressed.
Another councillor Ang Kian Wah said cigarette butts were hazardous to health as it was carcinogenic, as well as non-biodegradable.
“People must stop this bad habit as it not only pollutes the environment but is also a health hazard,” he pointed out.
During another operation, MBDK Enforcement and Health departments acted on complaints about a residential property rearing poultry in Pandamaran, Port Klang.
Norfiza said the enforcement operation uncovered dozens of chickens, ducks and dogs kept at a house.
“About 40 chickens, 20 ducks and 10 dogs and puppies were found kept in cages in the corner-lot house,” she said.
The dogs were also found to be without licences.
“MBDK has given the house owner seven days to remove the poultry,” said Norfiza.
“For the dogs, MBDK has instructed the owner to apply for dog licences and ensure the animals do not roam unsupervised,” she added.
