Well-kept public loos can boost nation’s image

PETALING JAYA: The cleanliness of public toilets affects a country’s image, says Nga Kor Ming.

On top of this, the Local Government Development Minister said dirty toilets also affect the well-being and comfort of users.

“There are 22,600 public toilets throughout the nation, including those located at the rest and relax areas of highways and restaurants,” he said.

“Public toilets must meet five criteria, such as they must have toilet paper, must be cleaned daily and smell good. Clean and well-maintained public restrooms give a good impression and experience to tourists while indirectly boosting the country’s image.”

Nga said not renewing the business licences of premises with dirty toilets would be the last resort.

“We understand that not all traditional coffeeshops can afford to renovate their toilets. Our intention is to encourage everyone to keep the toilets clean.

“Clean toilets benefit the country’s public health and the tourism industry,” he said, adding the ministry had been meeting with business owners over the matter.

“We have met with kopitiam and restaurant operators, and we will set up meetings with mamak restaurants and hotel operators next,” he said.

Nga said a guideline on toilet hygiene would be released this year.

Beginning Jan 1 next year, the toilets would be graded accordingly, he said.

“We will prepare a checklist for the operators. The toilets will only be given an A rating if they score 80 points and above,” he said.

It is learnt that the ministry and the state governments will jointly form a team to implement the programme.