Kuala lumpur: The Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management (Amendment) Bill 2025, passed in the Dewan Rakyat today, will empower courts to issue community service orders for littering offences in public areas. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the provision is introduced through a new subsection 77(B)(1), allowing courts to impose community service orders in addition to fines.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Bill was passed by a majority voice vote after being debated by 14 Members of Parliament (MPs). Nga emphasized that courts will now consider the physical and mental condition of the convicted individual before issuing a community service order. The amendment does not prescribe a minimum period for community service, allowing courts the discretion to determine the duration based on individual circumstances.

Nga urged support for the Housing and Local Government Ministry when it enforces the amendment and emphasized the importance of not politicizing or defending those who litter. He highlighted strategies to enhance local authorities' enforcement capabilities, such as increasing manpower, training personnel, and utilizing modern technology.

Earlier, during the tabling of the Bill for a second reading, Nga stated that the amendment aims to educate offenders about environmental cleanliness and instill a sense of remorse and awareness. Offenders may be required to wear special vests and complete community service for a specified number of hours. The amendment seeks to prevent repeat offences, promote legal compliance, and reduce environmental pollution and vector-borne disease risks.

Nga pointed out that the volume of litter collected indicates that fines are no longer an effective deterrent, making community service orders a more suitable punishment for those convicted of littering.