AUTHORITIES have detained more than 1,000 individuals nationwide for littering offences in a sweeping enforcement drive aimed at improving public cleanliness standards.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said offenders would face court action, with penalties already being imposed on some individuals.
“As of this morning, the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) has apprehended 1,054 offenders,” he told a press conference on Wednesday.
The enforcement campaign has seen courts handing down fines and community service sentences to those convicted.
“Some were fined RM2,000 and ordered to carry out duties such as sweeping roads, cleaning drains and public toilets for up to 12 hours. If they are not able to carry out the 12-hour service then they are required to complete the hours in multiple sessions in two-hour slots each day,” Nga said.
He warned that even seemingly minor offences, such as discarding cigarette butts, could result in severe penalties.
“It is simply not worth it. A single cigarette butt could cost you RM2,000 and hours of community service,” he said.
Nga stressed that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility, particularly as Malaysia prepares to welcome visitors under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
“We must not only welcome tourists but also be honourable hosts. Set a good example and do not litter indiscriminately,” he added.
Large-scale cleaning operations will continue throughout Ramadan and after Hari Raya as part of broader sanitation reforms, with more than 300 personnel deployed to monitor conditions during the festive period.
He noted that enforcement applies equally to all, including locals, foreigners, adults and minors.
“However strong enforcement may be, we still need public cooperation. Cleanliness is a shared responsibility. We have reminded the public many times that it is now time to practise what we believe,” he said.
Nga also emphasised that festive seasons would not exempt offenders from penalties. “Whether it is a festival or not, if you litter, you will be held accountable.
“The same hand that throws rubbish will be the hand that cleans it up,” he said.
He urged the public to dispose of waste responsibly, especially while travelling. “If you have rubbish in your car, keep it there until you reach home and dispose of it properly. Do not treat the streets as a rubbish bin,” he said. - March 18, 2026
