Litterbugs in Penang to sweep streets, collect rubbish under community service order from July 1

“GEORGE TOWN, May 14 — Those caught littering from July 1 onwards will have to pick up rubbish, sweep streets, and collect solid waste in public areas under the Community Service Order (PKM). State local government and town and country planning committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said local authorities have identified a list of suitable activities for the implementation of PKM. “Among the activities identified are cleaning works such as picking up rubbish, sweeping, washing, mopping, painting, and collecting solid waste in designated public areas,” he said at the state legislative assembly today. H’ng was replying to an additional question by Joseph Ng Soon Siang (PH–Air Itam) on the types of activities, schedules, and costs incurred under the implementation of PKM. He said local authorities will determine the PKM implementation schedule based on operational suitability, duration of punishment, and the safety and welfare of offenders. “In addition, the safety and welfare of offenders are also given attention through PKM guidelines, which stipulate supervision by responsible officers throughout the implementation of the punishment,” he said. He added that follow-up action will be taken if offenders fail to comply with the order imposed, including being referred back to court for further action in accordance with existing legal provisions. “A systematic monitoring mechanism will also be implemented to ensure implementation records and compliance levels can be continuously monitored,” he said. H’ng said the adoption of guidelines for the implementation of PKM for littering offences by local authorities in Penang, effective July 1, was approved and endorsed by the state exco on May 6. “The guidelines were introduced to ensure standardisation of PKM implementation procedures by both local authorities in the state,” he said. On the financial aspect of PKM implementation, he said it does not involve any additional financial costs for the state government, as it can be carried out using existing resources within the local authorities. He said the state believes the implementation of PKM is expected to be more effective compared to fines as the approach is educational and capable of shaping behavioural change among offenders through direct experience. He said implementation of PKM will be carried out in stages, while local authorities will also carry out publicity and public education to increase public awareness.

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