KOTA SAMARAHAN – The Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) has issued a stern warning that it will intensify actions against individuals and businesses involved in illegal waste dumping after receiving numerous complaints from residents.
The council has noted repeated incidents of garbage being dumped unlawfully along Jalan Sarawak Turf Club, Batu 7, an area increasingly notorious for illegal disposal. In response, MPKS teams have stepped up monitoring and launched immediate clean-up operations to maintain public health and environmental standards.
Council officials expressed disappointment over the continued disregard for environmental laws by some members of the public. Improper waste disposal not only spoils the area’s appearance but also endangers the health of nearby communities.
“Such irresponsible behaviour shows a complete disregard for both the environment and the well-being of residents,” said an MPKS spokesperson.
MPKS stressed that strict penalties will be enforced under current council by-laws. Offenders may face fines or legal action, depending on the severity of the violation. The Local Authority Clearing (LAC) By-Law empowers enforcement teams to issue fines, with follow-up inspections ensuring compliance.
This firm stance aligns with nationwide efforts in Malaysia to combat illegal dumping and protect the environment. For example, in Selangor, authorities are preparing to enforce the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007, which carries fines up to RM100,000 or imprisonment for environmental offences, reflecting growing national attention to waste management.
The council also urged the public to actively report illegal dumping. Residents are encouraged to document and submit information about dumping sites to enable swift enforcement actions.
“It is a shared responsibility to protect our environment,” the spokesperson added. “We call on all residents to collaborate with us to prevent illegal dumping and maintain cleanliness.”
Regular patrols and inspections under the Local Authorities Regulatory Compliance Index (LARCI) have been increased, alongside joint efforts with the Public Health Department and local police, to deter further violations.
Environmental groups have praised the council’s approach, noting that consistent enforcement combined with community involvement is crucial for effective waste management and long-term behavioural change.
As urban areas like Kota Samarahan continue to grow rapidly, authorities face mounting challenges in managing waste, particularly in remote or vulnerable areas. MPKS reaffirmed its commitment to combining strict enforcement with public education to promote responsible disposal and environmental stewardship among all residents.
