Malaysia’s Anti-Littering Revolution: Community Service Replaces Fines to Curb Dirty Habits

A New Approach to Public Cleanliness

Malaysia has ushered in 2026 with a transformative shift in how it tackles littering, replacing traditional fines with court-ordered community service as a means of behavior correction. The new measures, which took effect January 1, represent the government’s most aggressive attempt yet to address entrenched littering habits that have long plagued public spaces across the country. Those caught discarding cigarette butts, food wrappers, plastic bottles, or other waste now face penalties of up to RM2,000 and mandatory community service of up to 12 hours, marking a significant escalation from previous enforcement approaches.

The timing of this initiative aligns strategically with Visit Malaysia 2026, a major tourism campaign aiming to attract 45 million visitors and generate RM350 billion in tourism revenue. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasized the critical importance of cleanliness in achieving these goals, noting that every Malaysian must act as a tourism ambassador by maintaining public spaces, ensuring fair pricing by traders, and treating visitors with courtesy.

Industry experts have welcomed the stricter measures while cautioning that enforcement alone cannot solve deep-rooted behavioral issues. Noruddin Idris, president of the Malaysia Association of Cleaning Management (MACM), questioned the depth of commitment to cleanliness at all levels of society. He highlighted how complaints about dirty toilets, particularly at entry points such as airports, remain among the most frequent issues raised by visitors to the country.

“The question is how much do we really care about cleanliness and the image of the country? Airports leave the first impression. Unfortunately, toilet cleanliness is still a major complaint,” Noruddin said.

These concerns extend beyond immediate cleanliness to broader questions about civic responsibility and national identity. The new enforcement framework represents more than just stricter penalties, it reflects an attempt to reshape social norms around public space maintenance.

Breaking Down the New Penalties

The enhanced anti-littering regulations operate under amendments to the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672), which received parliamentary approval in August 2025. First-time offenders now face fines of up to RM2,000 and may be ordered to perform up to 12 hours of community service within a six-month period. The community service component cannot exceed four hours per day and may involve a variety of tasks including sweeping streets, cleaning drains and public toilets, trimming trees, waste collection, washing, painting, and grass cutting.

What makes this approach distinctive is its emphasis on direct consequences for offenders rather than purely financial penalties. Nga Kor Ming explained that community service serves both punitive and educational purposes, aiming to instill civic responsibility rather than simply punishing offenders. This approach acknowledges that fines may be ineffective deterrents for wealthier individuals who can easily absorb the financial cost.

For those who fail to complete their assigned community service, the consequences escalate significantly. Failure to comply with community service orders can result in additional fines ranging from RM2,000 to RM10,000 or even imprisonment. Repeat offenders face tracking through the legal system, with potential for higher fines and longer service periods for subsequent violations.

The law covers all forms of littering in public spaces, including discarding, placing, or leaving waste such as cigarette butts, water bottles, canned drinks, tissue paper, plastic items, and food wrappers. It also specifically addresses spitting in public areas, previously a less regulated but equally problematic behavior that contributes to unsanitary conditions and potential health risks.

Who Is Accountable Under the New Law

The legislation applies universally regardless of nationality or age, with specific provisions for different categories of offenders. Adults found littering face the full range of penalties, while minors are not exempt. Parents or guardians of children caught littering receive fines or service orders, reinforcing the principle that accountability extends to supervising adults.

Shop owners and property operators face particular responsibility under the new regulations. They can be fined for failing to maintain cleanliness around their premises, shifting some burden from individual offenders to those responsible for maintaining specific locations. This aspect of the law recognizes that environmental maintenance requires collective action from businesses, property owners, and individuals alike.

The jurisdiction of the law extends comprehensively across accessible spaces. Any place accessible to the public, even if privately owned, falls under the enforcement framework. This includes malls, restaurants, car parks, and commercial areas, ensuring consistent standards throughout urban and suburban environments.

First Results from New Year’s Eve Enforcement

The initial implementation of the stricter laws coincided with New Year’s Eve celebrations, providing authorities with an immediate opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to enforcement. During Ops Cegah (Preventive Operation) conducted at 11 major hotspot locations across the country, enforcement officers issued 42 notices to individuals caught littering between 12:01 a.m. and 3 a.m. on January 1.

The statistics revealed a diverse cross-section of offenders, demonstrating the universal application of the new measures. Of the 42 individuals issued notices, 24 were Malaysian citizens while 18 were foreign nationals. The group included 40 adults and two children, highlighting that littering behaviors transcend demographic categories. The specific offences detected involved discarding various waste items including cigarette butts, water bottles, canned drinks, tissue paper, plastic items, and food wrappers in public places and along roads.

These enforcement actions occurred at major celebration venues including Dataran Merdeka, the KLCC area, and Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. Despite these violations, waste contractor Alam Flora reported a notable improvement in overall cleanliness compared to the previous year. Workers collected approximately 3.2 tonnes of rubbish from these three major hotspots after the New Year countdown, marking an 11 per cent decrease from the 3.6 tonnes collected during the previous year’s celebrations.

This reduction suggests that the threat of stricter enforcement may already be influencing behavior, even before the full impact of community service orders takes effect. The operation involved more than 150 workers deployed from late evening until the following morning, supported by dozens of mobile rubbish bins placed around high-traffic areas to manage crowds and waste more effectively.

Khalid Mohamed, chief executive officer of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp), emphasized that Ops Cegah represents a sustained commitment rather than a seasonal initiative. He stated that enforcement would continue consistently through ongoing monitoring at state and branch levels throughout the year.

Notable Cases Among Early Offenders

The enforcement actions during New Year’s Eve captured attention for including several high-profile cases involving tourists and visitors from neighboring countries. In Johor Bahru, three men were issued notices for carelessly disposing of cigarette butts along Jalan Garuda 2/1, Larkin Jaya, a street near Larkin Terminal. A video accompanying the enforcement announcement showed the men smoking separately and apparently throwing their cigarette butts on the sidewalk.

Among the 18 foreigners caught nationwide was at least one Singaporean tourist, according to reports from enforcement agencies. This particular case garnered significant regional attention, demonstrating that Malaysia intends to apply the laws equally to all visitors regardless of their country of origin. The presence of foreigners among the early offenders highlights the challenge of changing behaviors among short-term visitors who may not be familiar with local regulations.

Equal Application for Foreigners and Visitors

The principle that nobody is above the law stands at the center of Malaysia’s new enforcement approach. Nga Kor Ming made clear that the regulations apply equally to foreigners, sending a strong message that cleanliness is a shared responsibility. Anyone caught littering, regardless of nationality, faces the same penalties of fines and mandatory community service.

This universal application of the law represents a significant shift from previous approaches that may have treated visitors with greater leniency. The government has positioned this stance as essential for creating consistent standards of public cleanliness across all segments of society. During enforcement operations, officers have been instructed to uphold the new law without exception.

The inclusion of foreigners in the initial enforcement actions serves as a warning to tourists and visitors that Malaysia takes its cleanliness standards seriously. With Visit Malaysia 2026 approaching, this approach carries both risks and benefits. On one hand, strict enforcement could potentially deter some visitors who might view the penalties as harsh. On the other hand, it demonstrates a commitment to quality and standards that could enhance the country’s appeal to more discerning travelers.

“The enforcement applies equally to foreigners, sending a strong message that nobody is above the law. Anyone caught littering, including discarding cigarette butts, spitting or throwing plastic bottles, will face enforcement action,” Nga said.

The enforcement strategy recognizes that changing behaviors requires addressing all sources of litter, not just local residents. With millions of visitors expected for tourism initiatives, their collective impact on public spaces cannot be overlooked. By applying the law universally, Malaysia aims to create a culture of cleanliness that encompasses both residents and guests.

Addressing the Tourist Experience

The connection between the new enforcement measures and tourism goals extends beyond mere coincidence. As Malaysia prepares to welcome increased numbers of visitors, authorities recognize that public cleanliness significantly affects the overall visitor experience. Noruddin Idris noted that entry points such as airports play a critical role in shaping first impressions, and unfortunately, toilet cleanliness remains a major complaint at these locations.

The government has identified four key areas in Kuala Lumpur as litter-free zones with enhanced monitoring: Jalan Bukit Bintang, Dataran Merdeka, Jalan Tun Perak, and the Brickfields commercial area. These popular tourist destinations will receive particular attention from enforcement officers as part of efforts to reinforce the city’s clean and orderly image.

Complementing the litter enforcement, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will continue inspecting food premises, monitoring approximately 7,450 locations to prevent contamination and the spread of disease vectors. Authorities will also periodically inspect public toilets to ensure comfort for visitors. These comprehensive measures address the broader ecosystem of public cleanliness that affects tourist perceptions and experiences.

State-by-State Implementation Timeline

The implementation of the stricter anti-littering laws follows a coordinated timeline across Malaysia, though not all states have adopted the measures simultaneously. As of January 1, 2026, the amended legislation has been adopted in Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perlis, Kedah, and the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. This represents a significant portion of the country’s population and includes major urban centers and tourist destinations.

Penang has announced plans to enforce the stricter anti-littering laws starting July 1, 2026. H’ng Mooi Lye, local government, town and country planning committee chairman, explained that the six-month postponement allows the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) to prepare adequately. Both city councils are forming task forces to study mechanisms for issuing fines according to offences and other implementation details.

The delayed implementation in Penang reflects the practical challenges of rolling out such significant enforcement changes. The executive council decided on December 17, 2025, to allow time for establishing mechanisms that encompass public education and execution of the law. This phased approach acknowledges that effective enforcement requires preparation beyond simply passing legislation.

For states yet to adopt Act 672, including Selangor, Kelantan, and Terengganu, a six-month period for discussions has been allowed. Nga Kor Ming indicated that this time would facilitate strategic cooperation and adoption of the community service punishment, which has already received parliamentary and royal assent. The gradual implementation timeline suggests a commitment to ensuring that enforcement mechanisms are properly established before the laws take effect in each jurisdiction.

The Challenge of Standardization

The varying implementation timelines across states creates a temporary patchwork of regulations throughout Malaysia. While the federal government has established the framework, actual enforcement depends on state adoption and implementation. This situation reflects Malaysia’s federal governance structure, where certain aspects of local governance fall under state jurisdiction rather than federal control.

This decentralized approach presents both challenges and opportunities. The delay in full nationwide implementation allows for learning from early adopters, potentially improving implementation strategies in later phases. However, it also creates confusion about what rules apply where, particularly for travelers moving between states with different enforcement regimes.

Despite these transitional challenges, the government has expressed confidence that all states will eventually adopt the measures. The strong national tourism goals provide additional motivation for coordinated action, as inconsistent cleanliness standards could undermine the overall effectiveness of initiatives like Visit Malaysia 2026.

Industry Perspectives on Cleanliness Challenges

While the new enforcement measures have generated considerable public attention, industry experts emphasize that lasting change requires more than stricter penalties. Noruddin Idris, from the Malaysia Association of Cleaning Management, pointed out that many facility operators appear satisfied with their current cleaning arrangements, with no push for additional deep cleaning even at high-traffic locations.

Noruddin distinguished between the frequency of cleaning and the quality of the cleaning process. He likened poor cleaning practices to repeatedly mopping floors with dirty water, where the activity happens without achieving actual cleanliness. This insight highlights how superficial approaches to maintenance can mask underlying issues without addressing the root causes of dirty public spaces.

From an architectural perspective, building facades represent another critical aspect of urban cleanliness that affects public perception. Adrianta Aziz, president of the Malaysian Institute of Architects, emphasized that facade cleanliness of buildings and popular landmarks is critical in shaping a city’s image for visitors. He noted that neglected facades subconsciously communicate a lack of care, which can diminish the perceived quality of the destination.

“Facade cleanliness and maintenance are not optional aesthetic preferences; they reflect professional practice, statutory compliance, public safety and cultural identity,” Adrianta stated.

Facade care is governed by the Uniform Building By-Laws 1984 and the Strata Management Act, making it a statutory and safety obligation rather than merely a cosmetic consideration. Noruddin recalled that a former mayor would urge building owners to clean their facades whenever Kuala Lumpur hosted foreign visitors or international meetings. Today, however, everyday lapses remain common, with cigarette butts scattered outside offices and food containers left in public areas.

The Economics of Building Maintenance

Noruddin explained that facade cleaning costs vary widely depending on building height, accessibility, equipment needs, and time constraints. Some buildings only allow facade cleaning on weekends, while weather presents another significant factor affecting maintenance schedules. These practical constraints demonstrate how maintaining urban cleanliness involves complex logistical and economic considerations beyond simple behavioral change.

Adrianta noted that Visit Malaysia 2026 could serve as a catalyst for building owners to take maintenance seriously. However, he stressed that short-term facade polish must give way to sustainable, regulated maintenance regimes supported by professional standards and statutory obligations. This perspective aligns with the broader theme that lasting change requires systemic improvements rather than temporary fixes.

The involvement of architects and cleaning industry professionals in the conversation highlights how addressing littering and cleanliness requires coordination across multiple sectors. Their insights suggest that while individual behavior change is necessary, it must be complemented by improved infrastructure, maintenance standards, and professional practices throughout the urban environment.

Beyond Littering: Expanding Public Cleanliness Efforts

The new anti-littering measures represent one component of a broader campaign to improve public cleanliness and hygiene standards across Malaysia. In Kuala Lumpur, authorities have simultaneously intensified enforcement against public spitting, an issue that has historically received less regulatory attention despite its impact on sanitation and public health.

Dr Nor Halizam Ismail, director of the Department of Health and Environment (JKAS) of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), explained that the objective extends beyond simple punishment. The goal involves educating society to be more disciplined and to respect the public spaces shared by all. This educational component reflects an understanding that sustainable change requires shifting cultural attitudes, not just increasing penalties.

The four designated litter-free zones in Kuala Lumpur will undergo particularly strict monitoring as part of these efforts. These areas, including Jalan Bukit Bintang, Dataran Merdeka, Jalan Tun Perak, and the Brickfields commercial area, represent high-profile locations where cleanliness standards can significantly influence public perceptions. By focusing resources on these key areas, authorities aim to create visible examples of improved cleanliness that can influence broader behavioral norms.

Food premises and public toilets represent additional focus areas for the expanded cleanliness initiative. DBKL has stated it will not compromise on hygiene standards at premises that handle food or in public restrooms around the capital city. With approximately 7,450 food premises under regular monitoring to prevent food contamination or infestation by vectors such as rats and cockroaches, authorities are taking a comprehensive approach to public health and sanitation.

Integrated Enforcement Strategies

The enforcement operations employ an integrated approach involving multiple agencies and stakeholders. Ops Cegah mobilized enforcement personnel across state lines, with participation from SWCorp senior management, cooperation with local authorities, and support from 330 concession staff responsible for swiftly restoring affected areas to cleanliness.

This coordinated effort demonstrates how addressing littering requires collaboration between different government entities, private contractors, and community organizations. The operation concluded at 3 a.m. on New Year’s Day, but follow-up activities continued to ensure that public areas maintained optimum cleanliness. This sustained attention prevents the temporary improvements from being undermined by immediate backsliding.

The comprehensive nature of these efforts reflects an understanding that public cleanliness is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions. Rather than relying exclusively on punitive measures against individual litterbugs, authorities are simultaneously addressing infrastructure, maintenance practices, enforcement capacity, and public education.

The Education Argument: Building Civic Responsibility

While the new enforcement measures have attracted significant attention, some experts argue that long-term behavioral change requires focusing on civic education rather than increasing penalties. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, chairman of the Alliance for a Safe Community, emphasized that strengthening civic education from a young age represents the ultimate solution to Malaysia’s littering culture.

Lee acknowledged that new punishments serve as a deterrent but cautioned they do not guarantee a long-term shift in societal attitudes. He noted that even with fines in place, many offenders simply do not bother to change their behavior. This observation highlights the limitations of purely punitive approaches to addressing deeply ingrained cultural habits.

“Civic education is the key to all this, and there is no better place to instil it than in schools,” Lee stated.

Lee cited Japan’s success in maintaining cleanliness as stemming from a mindset nurtured from youth rather than just laws. He noted that when walking along streets in Japan, one finds hardly any rubbish bins despite the lack of litter. This observation emphasizes how internalized values can accomplish what external regulations alone cannot achieve.

Lee emphasized that integrity is critical, suggesting individuals should not litter even when no one is watching. This perspective shifts focus from avoiding punishment to internalizing values of civic responsibility and respect for shared spaces. Such internalized values prove more durable than compliance driven solely by fear of penalties.

Complementary Approaches to Behavior Change

While Lee advocates strongly for civic education, he also recognizes that community service can play a role in instilling discipline in stubborn offenders who ignore fines. However, he cautioned that enforcement must be executed properly and fairly by relevant authorities. He also noted that local authorities must ensure sufficient manpower to enforce the order effectively.

This balanced perspective acknowledges that different approaches may work for different segments of the population. While education aims to prevent littering by shaping values from an early age, enforcement addresses those who have already developed entrenched habits. The combination of preventive education and corrective enforcement represents a comprehensive strategy for addressing the complex challenge of public cleanliness.

The public response to these measures has included debate about their appropriateness and effectiveness. On one hand, littering remains prevalent despite years of campaigns, suggesting that previous approaches have been insufficient. On the other hand, some argue that awareness remains low and that infrastructure such as bins and signage is not always available. These discussions reflect the ongoing conversation about how best to achieve the goal of cleaner public spaces.

How Citizens Can Participate in Enforcement

The new anti-littering framework includes mechanisms for public participation in enforcement, recognizing that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility. SWCorp has established channels through which citizens can report littering violations they witness, enabling community involvement in enforcement efforts.

Members of the public can use their phones to record evidence of littering, with photos or videos showing the act and the offender’s identity being admissible for enforcement purposes. To be effective, evidence needs to clearly capture the act of littering and identifiable details such as a face or vehicle registration. Landmarks in the recording help confirm the location where the violation occurred.

Reports can be submitted through SWCorp’s WhatsApp channel at 013-210 7472 or through the SISPAA system at swcorp.spab.gov.my. While reports can be made anonymously, contact details are required for verification purposes. Complainants are generally protected but may be called as witnesses in enforcement proceedings.

SWCorp has clarified that filming someone littering in public does not violate privacy laws, as recordings made in public places where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy are permitted. This clarification addresses potential concerns about citizen surveillance while enabling community participation in enforcement.

Common Questions About the New Regulations

As the new regulations take effect, several questions have emerged about their implementation and scope. SWCorp has addressed some of the most frequently asked issues to provide clarity for the public. Regarding accidental littering, authorities note that genuine accidents may result in warnings, though items like cigarette butts or wrappers are typically treated as deliberate offences since their disposal involves conscious action.

The punishment for violations is determined by the magistrate’s court after investigation by enforcement authorities. The specific type of community service assigned to offenders includes cleaning public areas, waste collection, washing, painting, cutting grass, and similar duties. Offenders do have the right to appeal or ask for alternatives, as courts may consider medical or personal circumstances when assigning tasks.

Repeat offenders are tracked through the enforcement system, with potential for higher fines and longer service periods for subsequent violations. Enforcement responsibility falls to SWCorp officers and local council enforcement personnel, who operate within the framework established by the legislation. The same rules apply to tourists, who face the same penalties as locals including fines and mandatory community service.

These procedural details demonstrate the complexity of implementing such comprehensive regulations while addressing practical questions about how the system works in practice. The clarity provided by SWCorp helps ensure that both potential offenders and conscientious citizens understand their rights and responsibilities under the new framework.

The Essentials

• Malaysia implemented stricter anti-littering laws on January 1, 2026, allowing fines up to RM2,000 and mandatory community service of up to 12 hours
• 42 individuals were issued notices during New Year’s Eve enforcement operations, including 24 Malaysians and 18 foreigners
• Community service can include sweeping streets, cleaning drains and public toilets, trimming trees, waste collection, and similar tasks
• The law applies to all public spaces including malls, restaurants, car parks, and streets, with no exemption for foreigners
• Parents or guardians are held responsible for littering by minors under the new regulations
• Penang delayed implementation until July 1, 2026, to allow for preparation and public education
• Four areas in Kuala Lumpur have been designated as litter-free zones with enhanced monitoring
• The enforcement aims to support Visit Malaysia 2026 goals of attracting 45 million visitors
• Citizens can report littering violations through SWCorp’s WhatsApp channel at 013-210 7472
• Experts emphasize that long-term change requires civic education alongside enforcement