All must adhere to law, no exceptions: Minister
IPOH: Two children were among 42 people nabbed for littering during New Year’s Day celebrations at the Bukit Bintang area in Kuala Lumpur just after midnight on Thursday.
The individuals, including 18 foreigners, were cited under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007, which came into effect on Thursday.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said all were issued compounds.
“The case will be referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for further action.”
He was on a working visit here accompanied by Ipoh city mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah, Perak exco members and ministry senior officers. Nga visited a commercial area to inspect road upgrading works worth RM1.9 million that was allocated by the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
He said the Act provides a maximum fine of RM2,000, apart from a jail term and community service based on the court’s discretion.
He emphasised that no one is above the law, including foreigners and children.
“As for the kids, the parents are the legal guardians and they are responsible to educate them. They have to settle the compounds irrespective of age. The message is clear, all have to adhere to the law. There are no exceptions.”
A total of 330 enforcement officers from the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation were mobilised to ensure there was no littering during the New Year celebrations.
Under the Act, offenders could be compelled to do community service for up to 12 hours within six months.
The community service includes picking up small litter, sweeping roads, cleaning drains and public toilets, and trimming trees if the need arises.
Nga said the community service is not to punish the public but to educate them on the responsibility of keeping their surroundings clean.
“Cleanliness is not solely the task of the government, but also the responsibility of everyone. This is in line with the slogan of ‘Clean Malaysia, Prosperous People”.’
