By Aida Nyan
SHAH ALAM, Dec 14 — The Selangor government is targeting to implement the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672) by the third quarter of next year, a move that would allow for stricter enforcement against littering offences.
State executive councillor for local government Dato’ Ng Suee Lim said weaknesses in existing laws are among the factors contributing to open dumping, including large-scale illegal disposal.
“Currently, the maximum fine for littering in Selangor is RM1,000. If we compare this with Act 672, the fine can reach up to RM100,000 with a jail term of up to five years,” he said when contacted yesterday.
He added that until the act is enforced, state-level enforcement remains bound by the existing maximum fine of RM1,000.
At the same time, Ng said proposals are being studied for implementing community service as penalties and will be aligned with recommendations from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT).
“If Act 672 is successfully implemented, we can fine offenders or require them to carry out punishments such as wearing specific attire of a designated colour and performing community service for a fixed period,” he said.
He expressed confidence that this approach would serve as a deterrent and help reduce littering cases in Selangor.
Ng also stressed that local authorities (PBT) will carry out regular enforcement and monitoring, rather than acting only based on public complaints.
“Enforcement will not be done only after receiving complaints. If offenders are caught, appropriate action will be taken,” he said.
Ruler's displeasure
According to Ng, these measures are also being taken following a royal decree by His Royal Highness Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, who expressed firm concern over waste and public cleanliness issues in the state.
“I humbly accept and take note of His Royal Highness’s advice. In this regard, a special meeting will be held tomorrow to formulate immediate and proactive actions, involving both short-term and long-term measures,” he said.
He said the meeting will be chaired by himself and attended by representatives from local authorities, KDEB Waste Management and relevant units.
Meanwhile, Ng acknowledged that weaknesses remain in Selangor’s waste management system due to several challenges.
“Among the main challenges is that Selangor is a diverse state, such as the Klang area, with many industrial zones and an influx of foreign nationals.
“These foreign nationals do not maintain cleanliness and do not properly use the rubbish bins provided,” he said.
As such, he said the state government will work to address these challenges, including through increased allocations and improvements to cleaning schedules.
He also called for cooperation from all parties to ensure environmental cleanliness is maintained.
“Efforts from one party alone are not enough. Cleanliness must be jointly upheld so that Selangor remains clean, liveable and environmentally friendly,” he said.
