THE nation has stepped up enforcement against minor littering offences through the implementation of community service orders, in a move aimed at tackling widespread public cleanliness issues and preventing larger environmental problems.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the enforcement of Community Service Orders (CSO) under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 is designed to deter irresponsible disposal of small waste items in public spaces.
He warned that seemingly minor acts of littering, if left unchecked, could escalate into more serious issues such as clogged drains, which disrupt community wellbeing and contribute to flash floods in urban areas.
“The government aims to educate the public to be more responsible in maintaining environmental cleanliness collectively.
“Do not throw cigarette butts, tissues or drink cans indiscriminately, as it not only pollutes the environment but also tarnishes the country’s image.
“The hands that litter must be the hands that clean. Never throw rubbish and bring shame upon your own family,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
The enforcement drive has already seen coordinated action across multiple states. Chief Executive Officer of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation, Khalid Mohamed, said 78 offenders ordered by the courts to perform community service carried out their sentences simultaneously across six states on Saturday.
The third phase of the programme involved participants in Kedah, Perlis, the Federal Territories, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan and Johor, with clean-up activities conducted at prominent public locations including Pantai Murni in Yan, Dataran Sena in Kangar, Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur, Taman Tasik Bandar in Temerloh, Bandar Prima Senawang and Kampung Senibong in Johor Bahru.
Nga added that the community service sentences focus on comprehensive cleaning efforts covering pavements, public roads, drainage systems, public toilets and coastal areas, in line with the government’s push to embed sustainable waste management practices under the Malaysia Madani framework.
He further revealed that enforcement authorities have issued 1,342 notices for offences under Act 672 across seven states to date, involving 1,058 Malaysian citizens and 284 foreign nationals. - March 29, 2026
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