A view of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia June 1, 2021. Photo by Reuters
Malaysia has begun enforcing stricter penalties on littering to safeguard its tourism image, with authorities aiming to make the country “even cleaner” than Singapore.
“We want Singapore to be clean, Malaysia to be even cleaner,” Malaysian Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said as quoted by news agency Named.
Under Malaysia’s new regulations that came into effect on Jan. 1, individuals taken to court for littering or spitting face a fine of RM2,000 (US$492.37) and a community service order of up to 12 hours.
During a nationwide crackdown carried out on Jan. 1 and 2, a total of 120 offenders were apprehended, comprising 86 locals and 34 foreigners, AsiaOne reported.
Enforcement covers tourist destinations including Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perlis and Kedah, as well as the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
Singapore, renowned for its litter-free streets, was named the cleanest tourist city in the world last year by U.S.-based Eagle Dumpster Rental.
No-littering signs are widespread across the island nation, with first-time offenders facing fines of up to S$1,000 (US$761). Repeat offenders can be fined as much as S$2,000 and may be assigned Corrective Work Orders as part of the penalty.
-
Madeira’s rise to top trending destination for 2026 as per reports; here’s why you should visit this place
-
Ponytails are no longer boring! 7 Hairstyles to Try for Trending and Unique Styles
-
Should God be worshiped in one form or in many forms? Premanand Maharaj’s clear and simple answer
-
Why is tarpan special on Mauni Amavasya? Pitra Dosha classical reason for peace
-
OpenAI to test ads on ChatGPT as Go subscription expands to US
