By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: Starting 1 January 2026, stricter action will be taken by the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) and local authorities against anyone found littering in public places.
Fines of up to RM2,000 will be imposed, in addition to supplementary punishment in the form of a community service order of up to 12 hours within a six-month period.
This approach aims to educate the public to be more disciplined and responsible towards the environment.
Emphasising this matter, the Minister of Housing and Local Government, Nga Kor Ming, said he views seriously and deeply regrets, reports regarding the cleanliness levels of cities that continue to be affected.
Among the causes is the attitude of certain individuals who indiscriminately dispose of rubbish, especially in city centres and public hotspots.
“The question is, is this our culture? Malaysia is moving towards becoming a developed nation and is preparing to welcome Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“However, irresponsible behaviour like this tarnishes the image of our cities and the country in the eyes of the public and tourists,” he said in a statement.
Kor Ming stressed that the government, through SWCorp and local authorities, remains committed to carrying out cleaning and enforcement work on an ongoing basis.
This is to ensure cities remain clean, orderly, and comfortable. However, these efforts will not be effective without public awareness and cooperation.
“I want to stress that city cleanliness is not solely the responsibility of the government, SWCorp, or local authorities, but a shared responsibility of the entire community.
“I call on all parties to respect the public spaces we share.
“Celebrate any festivity or activity with full civic awareness, use the provided rubbish bins, and comply with the law for the sake of urban cleanliness.
“A clean city reflects a society with high cultural values,” he said.
