Littering may seem like a small act to some, but for several offenders, it has now come with a very visible consequence.
According to Guang Ming Daily, a total of 21 offenders were made to carry out community service in Kepong on Sunday (May 24) as part of the ninth series of community service orders conducted simultaneously across several locations nationwide.
21 offenders do community service
The group, made up of 20 men and one woman aged between 20 and 45, reported to a playground area at Jalan 5, Metro Prima Timur, Kepong at around 7am.
Among them were 15 Malaysians and six foreign nationals from Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
According to reports, the offenders were ordered to sweep the streets, clean drains and pick up rubbish in the surrounding area.
Of the 21 offenders, 18 were caught for throwing cigarette butts.
Man fined RM1,300 after throwing away packaging
One of the offenders, a local, was reportedly issued a summons before Chinese New Year after accompanying his family to buy festive goods.
He had allegedly peeled mandarin oranges beside his car before casually throwing the packaging on the ground.
The act eventually cost him RM1,300 in fines, along with four hours of community service. He described the incident as an “unforgettable Chinese New Year” experience.
Separately, another offender expressed frustration over the fine, saying he only earns RM1,800 a month. After paying RM1,300, he questioned how he was supposed to cope with his daily expenses.
Given vests, water and breakfast before starting
After arriving at the location, enforcement officers checked and registered the offenders’ identities.
They were then given fluorescent vests, mineral water and bread for breakfast before being briefed on their tasks.
The group later began their community service, drawing the attention of members of the public who were passing by the park.
Some members of the public reportedly welcomed the move, saying it served as a warning to others not to litter.
Over 7,900 notices issued across seven states
According to records, SWCorp has issued 7,919 offence notices under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 across seven states.
The notices involved 5,708 Malaysians and 2,211 foreign nationals.
In the Federal Territories, SWCorp issued 1,292 offence notices through its four branches under the same Act, involving 695 Malaysians and 597 foreign nationals.
