KUALA LUMPUR – Litterbugs could soon be ordered to perform community service in addition to paying fines, following the Dewan Rakyat’s approval of two amended laws aimed at tackling public cleanliness more effectively.
During yesterday’s sitting, MPs passed the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Local Government (Amendment) Bill 2025, both of which empower the courts to impose community service sentences for those convicted of littering.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the move was part of the government’s effort to instil environmental awareness and social responsibility among the public, especially as fines alone have proven ineffective.
“Based on the volume of litter collected, it is clear that fines imposed by local councils are no longer an effective deterrent. Therefore, community service orders are a more appropriate punishment for those convicted of littering,” Nga told the Dewan Rakyat.
The new powers introduced through Subsection 77B(1) of the Solid Waste Act and Subsection 104A(1) of the Local Government Act allow courts to sentence offenders to perform unpaid public service, such as cleaning, in addition to any fines.
To strengthen implementation, Nga said the Local Government Department will issue standard operating procedures to local authorities (PBTs) to ensure the new orders are carried out consistently and fairly across the board.
He said local authorities must also take into account the age and mental condition of offenders before enforcing community service.
“For example, in cases involving autistic children, the court will have discretion to assess their mental condition to determine suitability. We leave this to the court’s wisdom,” he said, responding to a concern raised by Rasah MP Cha Kee Chin.
While no minimum duration is prescribed, the law allows for up to 12 hours of community service, with PBT officers authorised to set the time and location for the work.
Nga said the ministry would also ensure that if an offender is under the age of 18, provisions under the Child Act 2001 would apply.
To support effective rollout, several strategies are being introduced, including increased manpower for PBTs, targeted training, and greater use of modern technology for enforcement and monitoring.
Nga stressed that the aim is not just to punish, but to reform.
“The objective is to educate offenders to be more mindful of cleanliness, to feel remorse, and to give back to the community,” he said, adding that convicted individuals may be required to wear special vests while carrying out their service hours.
He urged MPs and the public not to politicise the issue.
“I noticed all honourable members have called on the government to act firmly in enforcing this amendment.
“Therefore, I urge everyone to support the Housing and Local Government Ministry when it takes firm action against litterbugs, and not defend those who indiscriminately discard rubbish,” he said.
The Solid Waste Bill was debated by 14 MPs, while the Local Government Bill saw eight MPs speak before both were passed via voice vote.
The Dewan Rakyat sitting continues today. – July 22, 2025
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