IPOH: Litterbugs may soon find themselves trimming trees, not just sweeping streets, under a tougher but more educational approach to community service punishment, says Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
He said individuals found guilty of littering could be assigned tasks such as tree trimming with the National Landscape Department, in addition to cleaning streets, drains and public toilets.
The community service punishment under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672), which came into force nationwide on Jan 1, is aimed at educating offenders and instilling civic responsibility rather than merely punishing them, he said.
Under the law, offenders may be fined up to RM2,000, and the court may also impose a community service order of up to six months, involving work not exceeding 12 hours in total.
“Nobody is above the law, regardless of age or nationality, as cleanliness is a shared responsibility and not solely the government’s duty,” Nga said after a working visit to Bandar Baru Medan Ipoh here yesterday.
He said 42 notices were issued by the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation against individuals caught littering in public places during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Of the total, 24 cases involved Malaysian citizens, while 18 involved foreign nationals. Two of those cited were children.
Regarding the issuance of compounds to children, Nga stated that the responsibility for such actions would rest with their parents or legal guardians.
“Anyone caught littering, including discarding cigarette butts, spitting or throwing plastic bottles, will face enforcement action.
“The enforcement applies equally to foreigners, sending a strong message that no one is exempt,” he stressed.
In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, Nga urged Malaysians to play their part in keeping the country clean, fragrant and attractive, as tourism targets have been set at 45 million visitors and RM350bil in revenue.
When asked about the states that have not yet adopted Act 672 and whether alternative mechanisms are available, Nga stated that a six-month period would be permitted for discussions, including with the Perak state government, to explore potential strategic cooperation.
“This is because the community service punishment has already been passed by Parliament and received the assent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nga said RM40mil had been allocated to resurface 800 residential roads in Perak, with all works required to be completed before Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
At a separate event in Kampung Tawas near here, Nga reiterated that cleanliness is a collective responsibility, reminding the public that the importance of maintaining clean surroundings is instilled from a young age.
He also urged Malaysians to show greater empathy towards cleaning workers.
“They are parents, sisters and mothers – hard-working individuals who deserve respect.
“Cleanliness is not just their responsibility,” he added.
