JOHOR BARU: With Johor heading into a state election, political parties and supporters have been warned to keep campaign venues clean or risk facing court action under anti-littering laws.
Johor Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) director Zainal Fitri Ahmad said the company would continue enforcement throughout the election period, similar to operations carried out during major festive seasons.
He said enforcement personnel would be deployed to monitor public cleanliness and ensure compliance with anti-littering regulations, which came into force in Johor on Jan 1.
“We will carry out enforcement to ensure everyone complies with the anti-littering laws,” he said here on Wednesday.
Zainal Fitri urged all political parties to play their part in maintaining cleanliness throughout the campaign period, particularly during ceramah, gatherings and walkabouts.
He warned that those caught littering could face enforcement action regardless of whether they were members of the public or involved in election activities.
“This applies not only to candidates but also to party machinery members and supporters. Please ensure that the surrounding areas remain clean,” he said.
He added that campaign materials such as flyers, banners and other promotional items should be handled responsibly to prevent unnecessary littering.
He said SWCorp would work closely with all 16 local authorities in the state to monitor cleanliness and ensure compliance with regulations.
“Just as the police ensure public order and safety, SWCorp will make sure the surrounding environment remains litter-free at all times,” he said.
He revealed that as of June 9, a total of 1,876 notices had been issued under Section 77A of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act against those caught littering this year.
Zainal Fitri also noted that littering is a non-compoundable offence under the provision, requiring offenders to undergo court proceedings.
He reminded those taking part in election-related activities to dispose of their waste responsibly, warning that failure to do so could result in enforcement action.
The Election Commission is expected to hold a special meeting to discuss matters related to the Johor and Negri Sembilan state elections.
Johor dissolved its state assembly on June 1, while Negri Sembilan dissolved its legislative assembly on June 5.
