Nga: Non-Act 672 states to enforce littering offences through respective local authorities

IPOH (Feb 23): States that have not adopted the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672) will enforce minor littering offences through their respective local authorities (PBT), Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming (pictured) said.

He said Perak is among five states yet to adopt the Act, along with Penang, Kelantan, Terengganu and Selangor. In these states, enforcement will be carried out by the PBT, while in states adopting Act 672, action is taken by the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp).

“Enforcement is showing results and will be further strengthened,” he told reporters after attending the Perak Chinese Assembly Hall Chinese New Year celebration here on Sunday.

Effective Jan 1, 2026, those caught littering in public places face a Community Service Order of between four and 12 hours, to be completed within six months, and a fine of up to RM2,000 under amendments to Act 672.

Six states have adopted the Act, namely Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Perlis and Pahang, along with the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.

Nga said initial enforcement has had a positive impact, with offenders expressing remorse and pledging not to reoffend.

“Before Chinese New Year, 755 individuals were detained, 478 charged in court and 15 ordered to carry out street sweeping and rubbish collection,” he said, adding that community service is intended to educate rather than punish.

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