The Johor Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) has taken firm action to curb the act of littering small waste items such as cigarette butts and food packaging in public places, particularly in tourist hotspots and public transportation areas like JB Sentral. According to the Director of SWCorp Johor, Zainal Fitri Ahmad, although such acts may seem trivial, they can have a significant impact on urban cleanliness and ultimately tarnish the image of the state and the country, especially when tourists from both within and outside the country are involved.

He made these remarks during the implementation of the “Operasi Gempur Kutu Sampah”, which was carried out to raise public awareness about the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness. The operation also involved direct enforcement against individuals found committing irresponsible littering offences. As of early 2026, a total of 55 Notices of Offence have been issued, involving local residents, foreign tourists, and foreign workers.

Zainal Fitri stressed that Malaysia is not a place for anyone to litter indiscriminately and that every individual must bear responsibility for maintaining public cleanliness. A careless attitude towards cleanliness can undermine government efforts to promote Johor as an international-standard tourist destination, especially ahead of the Visit Johor Year 2026.

In addition, SWCorp Johor has prepared charge sheets against two foreign nationals who will be prosecuted at the Johor Bahru Magistrate’s Court under the provisions of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007. This legal action demonstrates the authorities’ seriousness in addressing the issue of littering.

He also urged all public transport users, tourists, and local communities to work together to preserve the cleanliness of public areas. With the cooperation of all parties, the image of Johor and Malaysia as a clean, disciplined, and tourist-friendly country can continue to be upheld.

Resources: https://www.sinarharian.com.my/article/764774/edisi/johor/jangan-kerana-puntung-rokok-atau-plastik-makanan-imej-negara-tercalar 

Date of Input: 05/01/2026 | Updated: 26/01/2026 | adibbaharudin