Kedah: The Kedah Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) has opened 159 investigation papers on littering offenses since enforcement operations commenced on January 1.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kedah SWCorp director Shamsuharizal Basir reported that 136 of these cases involved local residents, while 23 involved non-citizens. The breakdown included 156 men and three women.

Shamsuharizal noted that 35 of these investigation papers have already received court mention dates. Convicted offenders will be required to complete Community Service Orders (PKM) as part of their sentencing. He highlighted the low level of public cleanliness awareness in the region, pointing out nearly 200 cases emerged in just over a month.

During a PKM implementation inspection at Darul Aman Stadium, Shamsuharizal described the recent community service sentencing of two male offenders, both 39 years old. This is the first instance of such sentences being enforced in the state. One local man was sentenced to 10 hours of community service, while an Indonesian national received a six-hour sentence. These sentences are designed to be carried out in stages, taking into account the offenders' capacities.

The execution of the sentences prioritizes the safety and health of the offenders, allowing for breaks as needed. Tasks include various cleansing activities such as cleaning drains, cutting grass, and mopping floors, tailored to each offender's abilities. Shamsuharizal emphasized that SWCorp is committed to enforcing penalties for all littering offenses, whether they occur in public places, vehicles, or recreational areas. Undercover operations will continue at public hotspots and tourist areas to identify violators.

Meanwhile, in Seremban, SWM Environment Sdn Bhd has mobilized around 1,200 personnel to ensure efficient waste management and public cleansing during the two-day Chinese New Year celebration. Mohd Norlisam Mohd Nordin, the corporate general manager, stated that the workforce included 1,060 employees and 139 subcontractors on duty on February 17, with similar numbers planned for the following day. A fleet of 179 waste collection vehicles will be used to maintain operations during the festive period.

In Port Dickson, SWM Environment Sdn Bhd has also installed 222 waste bins across 13 main beach locations, including Telok Kemang Beach and Cahaya Negeri Beach, in preparation for increased visitor numbers.