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

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak is among the five states yet to adopt the Act, alongside Penang, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Selangor. In these states, the PBT will handle enforcement, whereas in states that have adopted Act 672, the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) is responsible for taking action.

Nga shared that enforcement efforts are yielding results and will be further reinforced. This statement was made during the Perak Chinese Assembly Hall Chinese New Year celebration. Starting January 1, 2026, individuals caught littering in public places could face a Community Service Order ranging from four to 12 hours, to be completed within six months, alongside a fine of up to RM2,000 as per the amendments to Act 672.

The Act has been adopted by six states: Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Perlis, and Pahang, as well as the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Nga noted that initial enforcement has positively impacted offenders, who have shown remorse and committed to not reoffending.

Before the Chinese New Year, 755 individuals were detained, 478 were charged in court, and 15 were ordered to perform street sweeping and rubbish collection. He emphasized that the purpose of community service is to educate rather than punish.