KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s new Community Service Order (PKM) for littering comes into force today, marking a policy shift from relying mainly on fines to cultivating civic responsibility and cleaner public spaces.
The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) said enforcement under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672) will cover Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perlis and Kedah, as well as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. States not under the Act, namely Penang, Selangor, Kelantan and Terengganu, are expected to follow pending state approval.
Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) chief executive officer Khalid Mohamed said offenders may be ordered to perform up to 12 hours of community service such as cleaning public areas, collecting rubbish, washing facilities, cutting grass or clearing cobwebs, to directly connect the offence with its impact on the environment.
Starting today, SWCorp officers and local authorities will be stationed at public hotspots to monitor littering, especially involving cigarette butts and food wrappers. Offenders will be brought to court where sentencing will be determined.
The order applies to everyone, including tourists and foreign workers, and must be completed within six months under supervision by authorised officers.
Community service does not replace existing penalties. Offenders may still face fines of RM2,000 to RM10,000, with PKM imposed only after a court conviction. Refusal or failure to comply constitutes a separate offence carrying similar fines.
Khalid said fines alone are not always effective, particularly for wealthier offenders, and the additional measure is meant to drive real behavioural change rather than merely punish. Courts will also consider age, health and safety before sentencing.
He expressed confidence that the initiative will strengthen a national culture of cleanliness in line with reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan.– January 1, 2026
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