PETALING JAYA: The proposal to introduce community service to punish habitual litterbugs will be more effective than imposing a fine, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
The Alliance for a Safe Community founder and chairman said that the government’s introduction of community service as punishment was timely.
He said it would ensure better public cleanliness and benefit the environment.
"I would like to suggest that litterbugs be made to carry out community service activities like cleaning the streets and drains in full view of the public eye.
"Perhaps they have to wear a special uniform while doing this. This will instil a sense of shame in them, which will be more effective than what has been done so far," he said when contacted on Sunday (Sept 29).
"Normally, when the litterbug is given a fine, they either do not pay or the amount is too little. It does not have a deterrent effect," added Lee.
He added that it is time for the authorities to act more firmly on the issue.
"Hygiene and cleanliness have not been enforced effectively, as seen in many cases of food poisoning and complaints about dirty toilets at eateries.
"It is vital for the health authorities to carry out regular inspections to check on the cleanliness level at these places," he noted.
On Sept 29, the government announced that habitual litterbugs could end up having to sweep the streets or clean drains under penalties to be introduced in the Local Government Act.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the proposed amendments to the relevant law are in the final review stage before they are submitted to the Attorney General’s Chambers next month.
Nga said these litterbugs might have to wear special uniforms for a minimum of two to four hours while they clean the streets, drains, or even the toilets as a lesson to them.
