HOUSING and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has demanded an apology from critics who previously branded the MyKiosk initiative a “white elephant”, following a clean bill of health from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Nga told the Dewan Rakyat that the MACC’s investigation – which was initiated at the ministry’s own request – found no evidence of corruption, abuse of power, or criminal elements in the implementation of the MyKiosk programme.
“KPKT took the initiative to invite MACC to investigate. It wasn’t MACC who approached us. We submitted all documentation and MACC has since confirmed there was no wrongdoing,” he said.
“I demand, on behalf of the KPKT staff who work tirelessly to serve the people, that those who have made baseless claims and slander come forward and apologise. The sacrifices of these civil servants must be acknowledged and not tarnished by unfounded allegations.”
He was responding to a question from Onn Abu Bakar (PH–Batu Pahat) about the progress of MyKiosk 2.0 and the status of the Batu Pahat Municipal Council Stadium upgrade.
Nga said MyKiosk 1.0 had achieved a 91.75 percent occupancy rate, while the newer 2.0 version had reached 86.78 percent. A total of 7,243 hawkers and small traders had seen their livelihoods improved under the scheme.
Among the success stories cited were a fried chicken vendor at the Melaka International Trade Centre who now earns up to RM30,000 monthly, and soymilk and food traders whose monthly income has risen to RM18,000.
“This proves MyKiosk is more than just a physical infrastructure project. It’s an economic catalyst that creates sustainable business opportunities for Malaysians.”
Nga admitted that there were earlier shortcomings and said a ‘traffic light’ performance evaluation system for local authorities has now been implemented. Under this system, high-performing councils (green rating) would receive more funding, while underperforming ones (red rating) could see allocations withdrawn and their leadership summoned for explanation.
Regarding the RM3.5 million Batu Pahat stadium upgrade, Nga said the project will begin early next year and be completed by year-end. Works will include field resurfacing, improved drainage, and a new running track.
Recycling Facilities to be Mandatory at Shopping Malls from 2026
Separately, Nga announced that all shopping malls in Malaysia will be required to provide recycling facilities as a condition of business licensing, effective 1 January 2026.
“This will be enforced by local authorities and is part of our strategy to phase out single-use plastic bags and tackle plastic waste,” he said while winding up the debate on the Street, Drainage and Building (Amendment) Bill 2025, which was later passed by voice vote.
Nga noted this was in tandem with recent legislation passed to empower courts to issue community service orders for public littering offences.
The orders, he said, would apply equally to all, including VIPs and foreign tourists.
“Whether it’s a Datuk Seri or a Tan Sri – if they are ordered to sweep the streets, it will raise awareness about maintaining public cleanliness.”
He added that even pet owners who leave animal waste in public places would be subject to the same law.
“This is not about punishment but about instilling a civic sense of responsibility. Under the MADANI government, everyone is treated fairly,” Nga said. - July 22, 2025
