Wonder when this will be implemented in Malaysia!
Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) issued a statement today (14 May) that diners must clean up after themselves at public dining areas. They will required to clear tables of dirty trays, crockery and litter after their meals, starting at hawker centers from 1 June 2021.
First-time offenders will be issued a written warning and second-time offenders will face a composition fine amounting up to $300 (RM926). Subsequent offenders may face court fines.
The agency stated that the Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for everyone to maintain high public hygiene and cleanliness standards. Starting from 1 September 2021, NEA will take enforcement action against diners at hawker centres who leave behind their dirty trays, crockery and litter, such as used tissues and wet wipes, straws, wrappers, canned drinks, plastic bottles and food remnants in public dining places.
They added that this isn’t a new rule by the NEA as leaving litter on dining tables is enforceable as a littering offence under Section 17(1) of the Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA), however, pragmatic actions will be taken which includes issuing a fine for repeat offenders.
To help diners adjust, there will be a three-month advisory period from 1 June to 31 August 2021, during which NEA will take an advisory approach and no enforcement will be taken. During this period, enforcement officers and volunteers will be constantly reminding diners to clear their trash away.
Enforcement will not be taken against the less-abled or elderly but in the case of children who make a mess, they will be advised regarding the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of public places. Their family members are expected to help dispose the mess.
Do you think this law should be implemented in Malaysia? Let us know in the comments section!
Also read: PDRM Tracks Down Litterbugs Using Address On Delivery Packages They Throw Away
