Past incidents, including Dataran Merdeka being littered following the 2026 World Cup final, should serve as a lesson to prevent similar occurrences.
PETALING JAYA: Members of the public attending the 2026 Merdeka Eve Festival at Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) and National Day celebrations in Putrajaya have been reminded that littering in public places can result in a fine of up to RM2,000.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the spirit of National Day should be reflected not only through patriotism but also through discipline and responsibility in keeping the country clean.
“We want Malaysians to come out in large numbers to celebrate National Day with enthusiasm and pride. After shouting ‘Merdeka’, we should not leave rubbish everywhere.
“Love for the country is not merely about flying the Jalur Gemilang, but is also demonstrated through our attitude in keeping the country clean and improving the nation’s image,” he said in a statement today.
Nga said past incidents, including Dataran Merdeka being littered following the 2026 World Cup final, should serve as a lesson to prevent similar occurrences.
“Cleanliness is not solely the responsibility of cleaning personnel. Instead, every individual must take responsibility for the waste they produce.
“Come with the Merdeka spirit and leave with a sense of responsibility. We want Dataran Merdeka and Putrajaya to remain clean after the National Day celebrations.
“Malaysia is our home, and cleanliness is our shared responsibility,” he said.
The ministry, through the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp), said enforcement officers would be stationed at strategic locations throughout the celebrations to monitor and take action against littering.
Under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672), those convicted of littering in public places can be fined up to RM2,000.
The court may also impose a Community Service Order of up to 12 hours, which must be completed within six months.
The ministry said large crowds expected at the celebrations could result in increased waste, including food and drink containers, plastic bottles, food wrappers and other disposable items.
It urged visitors to dispose of their rubbish in designated bins before leaving the venues.
Visitors were also reminded to practise the “Come Clean, Leave Clean” principle, with public cooperation key to keeping the venues clean, safe and comfortable throughout the celebrations.