15 littering offenders begin community service, 478 more to face charges, says Nga Kor Ming
IPOH, Feb 14, 2026 – Fifteen individuals convicted of littering offences have begun serving their community service sentences, while 478 more are set to be charged in court as enforcement under the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act 2007 (Act 672) intensifies nationwide.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said authorities have identified 754 individuals, including foreign nationals, for littering violations across the country.
He noted that the enforcement of community service orders, which took effect on Jan 1, aims to instil greater public awareness and responsibility in maintaining cleanliness.
“Out of the total identified, 478 individuals will be prosecuted in court, and 15 offenders who have been sentenced began serving their community service yesterday.
“They have been ordered to sweep streets, clean drains and wash public toilets for four hours, to be completed within six months,” he said during his speech at the Tambun parliamentary-level Sumbangan Kasih MADANI programme here today.
The event, held in conjunction with Chinese New Year and Ramadan at SMJK Yuk Choy, was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Nga previously announced that all convicted offenders would commence their community service simultaneously from Feb 13.
He emphasised that the cleaning duties imposed on offenders are not merely punitive but educational, aimed at reinforcing civic responsibility and respect for public spaces.
“We must ensure cleanliness is maintained at all times, as it is not only a civic duty but also part of our shared values.
“Malaysia must remain clean, free from infectious diseases, and a place where people can live prosperously,” he said.
The stricter enforcement reflects the government’s determination to address littering as a serious public issue, particularly in urban and high-traffic areas.
The initiative is also seen as a broader effort to cultivate discipline and social accountability through firm legal action and visible corrective measures.
-wilayah.com.my
