Community service for litterbugs, under proposed law amendments
The three Acts are the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974, the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007, and the Local Government Act 1976.
Its minister, Nga Kor Ming, said the amendments would, among other things, pave the way for the introduction of community service orders, as fines under the existing laws are no longer effective in curbing offenders' bad habits.
"The amendments are aimed at addressing the littering of small waste items such as cigarette butts, tissues, plastics, drink cans, food wrappers, and similar items in public spaces and on public roads.
"This is crucial in nurturing greater civic responsibility, raising public awareness, and fostering a culture of cleanliness.
"Ultimately, it will contribute towards a cleaner and more sustainable Malaysia, ensuring the well-being and comfort of its people," he said in a statement today.
Nga said that on Sept 28 last year, the ministry recorded the collection of 51.9kg of food waste, 64.3kg of paper waste, 127.6kg of plastic waste, and 541 cigarette butts within just 12 hours in the Pasar Seni area during the Malaysia Clean-Up Day Programme.
He said the figures showed fines were no longer effective in deterring repeat offenders.
"As such, community service orders should be introduced to educate offenders on the importance of maintaining a clean environment and to help reduce environmental pollution," he said.
The amendments will empower courts to order those convicted of such offences to perform community service for up to 12 hours.
Anyone who fails to comply with a community service order will be committing an offence and, upon conviction, may be fined no less than RM2,000 and no more than RM10,000.
"In preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, every Malaysian plays an important role in keeping public spaces clean so that we can leave a positive first impression on foreign tourists," he said.
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