Starting January 1 next year, individuals caught committing minor littering offences in public places will be subject to up to 12 hours of community service within a six-month period.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced that the Dewan Negara recently approved amendments to the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Bill 2025, enabling courts to impose community service orders in addition to fines.
“Anyone who litters from their vehicle, throws cigarette butts, tissues, plastics, drink cans, or food wrappers in public areas will be required to wear a special green vest,” said Nga.
Offenders will perform tasks such as:
- Picking up small litter in public spaces
- Cleaning drains
- Washing public toilets
The Magistrate’s Court will determine how the sentence is carried out, either in one day or split into multiple sessions (e.g., three sessions of four hours each).
Punishment aims to educate Malaysians
Nga emphasised that the punishment is educational, not punitive, and aims to instill civic responsibility and environmental awareness.
“Countries like Korea, Japan, Sweden, and Singapore have proven the effectiveness of this approach. Malaysians must now step up, no more excuses.”
He also noted that public ignorance will no longer be accepted as an excuse, given the widespread announcements and notices about the new law.
What do you think of the change? Let us know in the comments.
Also read: “Don’t embarrass the country” – Nga Kor Ming Slams Litterbugs at Turun Anwar Rally
