KLANG, Dec 19 — The state government has continued large-scale clean-up operations by raiding several more illegal dumping ‘hotspots’, following the first operation in Section 7 the day before yesterday.
The latest operation was carried out in the residential area of Flat Taman Chi Liung in Pandamaran, and was led by the state executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato' Ng Suee Lim, with the participation of KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) and the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK).
He said the area's dirty, foul-smelling environment was caused by improper waste disposal, including the accumulation of bulky waste dumped by outside traders.
“Waste collection carried out by KDEBWM is not an issue and is done according to the prescribed schedule. The main problem is outside traders dumping bulky waste in residents’ refuse areas, leading to accumulation and unsanitary conditions.
“Besides clean-up efforts, the residents’ management needs to take remedial measures such as installing fencing around the flats to prevent outsiders from entering and dumping waste at the designated areas.
“The installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras can also be considered so that those involved can be identified and action taken,” Ng told the media during his inspection of the site.
He also reminded traders to dispose of waste at designated locations or face legal action, including compounds of up to RM1,000.
In a related development, Ng said the state government is now in the final stage of discussions to adopt the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672), which would allow for heavier penalties to be imposed on offenders.
“The discussion process is currently being carried out with several agencies, including the Federal government, to enforce Act 672. Under this Act, offenders may be subject to fines of up to RM100,000 and imprisonment for up to 5 years.
“At present, it is at the final stage and is expected to be finalised no later than September next year. This enforcement will help curb rampant illegal dumping activities,” he said.
On Wednesday (December 17), the state government began large-scale clean-up operations by raiding several dirty ‘hotspots’ in Section 7, including drainage areas behind restaurants.
It not only focused on cleaning drains and gutters, but also involved illegal dumping sites that were polluting the environment.
Previously, Bernama reported that the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj said that numerous complaints have been received regarding cleanliness issues in Selangor and called for immediate action.
The Ruler added that the increase in complaints, including complainants’ details, reflects growing public concern about urban cleanliness issues.
Sultan Sharafuddin said that Selangor should be a model of progress and good governance, “but my people complain that walking through most towns and suburbs today is not as it has been portrayed.”
