Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) has expressed strong support for the passing of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management (Amendment) Bill 2025, which empowers courts to impose up to 12 hours of community service on littering offenders.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MPMA president CC Cheah described the legislation as a bold and progressive step by the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) that transitions enforcement from punishment to public education and community amends. Cheah emphasized that by involving offenders in meaningful cleanup efforts, the law transforms irresponsible behavior into a learning experience. He applauded YB Nga Kor Ming and KPKT for this landmark legislation.
The Bill, which was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on July 22, also stipulates fines ranging from RM2,000 to RM10,000 for non-compliance. Under the amendment, offenders are required to assist municipal workers with tasks such as road sweeping, drainage clearing, and toilet sanitation while wearing identifiable vests. This serves as a visible reminder of the consequences of littering and encourages civic responsibility.
Cheah noted that the law ensures that assignments are fair and considerate of the offender's physical and mental condition. He highlighted that MPMA's environmental initiatives already reflect the spirit of the new law. Since 2015, the association has led its flagship 'Don't Be a Litterbug' campaign, focusing on public engagement and behavior change to tackle littering.
These efforts include setting up checkpoints at public events to encourage bin usage and waste separation at the source, as well as conducting community outreach and education to build lifelong anti-littering habits. MPMA has also collaborated with local councils and youth groups to promote cleanliness at the grassroots level. The campaign runs annually across MPMA branches in Johor, Penang, Perak, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Cheah further stated that in support of the national agenda, MPMA will collaborate with KPKT on Malaysia Cleaning Day 2025 in Port Dickson on September 27. The nationwide event is expected to draw participation from industry partners, non-governmental organizations, schools, and concerned citizens, making it a powerful symbol of shared responsibility.
He emphasized that MPMA's efforts are not just industry-driven but people-driven, asserting that real change occurs when communities and industries work together. MPMA proudly supports the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) vision for a cleaner, healthier future.
MPMA plans to continue collaborating with policymakers, local authorities, and civil society to expand community-based anti-littering activities nationwide, promote responsible plastics use while reducing environmental leakage, and strengthen public education through its outreach programs and campaigns.