29-06-2025
What happens to the rats after campaign ends?
Published on: Sunday, June 29, 2025
Published on: Sun, Jun 29, 2025 Text Size: Fighting rats isn't just about numbers; it's about prevention. And that starts long before the traps are laid. CITY HALL's (DBKK) new initiative to offer RM2 for every rat caught as part of a year-long rodent control campaign may seem like a creative solution, but it ultimately raises more questions than confidence. While the campaign, launched at the Central Market, aims to curb infestations and prevent diseases like leptospirosis, the idea of monetising pest control feels more reactive than strategic. Rats in urban areas are not just a nuisance — they're a symptom of deeper, systemic issues: poor waste management, unsanitary conditions and lack of consistent enforcement on cleanliness in public spaces. Offering financial incentives might lead to short-term reduction in rodent sightings, but it also opens the door to unintended consequences. Could people begin catching rats elsewhere just to profit from the scheme? Worse, might this distract from the city's responsibility to maintain hygiene standards year-round? What happens after July 31? The rats will be back unless the root problems are fixed. Cleanliness cannot be reduced to a seasonal campaign or one-off public clean-up — it requires long-term planning, daily upkeep, and stronger enforcement. City Hall's intentions may be good, but cleanliness should not depend on RM2 rewards It should be ingrained in daily operations and upheld through consistent infrastructure improvements, education, and accountability. Fighting rats isn't just about numbers; it's about prevention. And that starts long before the traps are laid. Curious girl The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
