Penang will introduce community service orders for litterbugs starting 1 July 2026, requiring offenders to sweep streets, collect rubbish and clean public areas instead of paying fines.
The Community Service Order (PKM) was approved by the state executive council on 6 May and will apply across both the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP).
State local government and town and country planning committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the guidelines were adopted to ensure standardisation of procedures between the two councils.
“Among the activities identified are cleaning works such as picking up rubbish, sweeping, washing, mopping, painting, and collecting solid waste in designated public areas,” H’ng said during the state legislative assembly.
He was replying to a supplementary question from Joseph Ng Soon Siang (PH–Air Itam).
H’ng explained that the state believes the PKM approach will be more effective than fines.
“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.
The programme will be implemented in stages, with local authorities conducting publicity and public education campaigns to raise awareness. Offenders must be supervised by responsible officers throughout their punishment.
Non-compliance will result in offenders being referred back to court for further action. A systematic monitoring mechanism will track implementation records and compliance levels.
H’ng confirmed the programme involves no additional costs to the state government, as it will utilise existing resources within the local authorities.
Source: Malay Mail
