Penang will enforce a Community Service Order for littering from July 1, 2026, following state council approval of amendments to a local act.
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Penang will enforce a Community Service Order for public littering offences starting July 1, 2026.
State Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the State Executive Council approved the federal proposal to implement the order under the Street, Drainage and Building Act 2025.
He said the order has been implemented federally under a different act, but Penang will use its own legislative framework.
The meeting granted a six-month preparation period to the Seberang Perai City Council and Penang Island City Council before full enforcement begins.
No enforcement action will be taken during this preparatory period.
Both local councils have been instructed to set up task forces to make thorough preparations.
These preparations include developing the implementation mechanism and public education initiatives.
H’ng expressed hope that both councils would consult with newly appointed members for smooth implementation.
The Community Service Order took effect on January 1 in several other states and federal territories.
In Penang, Selangor, Kelantan and Terengganu, enforcement is subject to state approval as they have not adopted the federal act.
The order will be enforced in addition to existing fines.
It can only be imposed on offenders after conviction by a court.
Offenders may be required to undertake up to 12 hours of community service within six months of conviction.
Activities can include collecting waste, washing public areas, or cutting grass.
