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If you see someone littering, the government has set up channels for you to file a complaint
According to the New Straits Times, you can report it to the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) via:
• WhatsApp at +6013-2107472 (or click here)
• The Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) official website here
These complaint channels are available to members of the public in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Pahang, Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, and Perlis.
Upon conviction, offenders may be sentenced to up to 12 hours of community service and fined up to RM2,000.
You can send photos or videos of the litterer through the complaint channels
Here are some key points you need to know about filing a complaint, as reported by NST:
• You are not breaking privacy laws if you film or photograph someone littering in public
• You can even file a complaint if the litterer committed the act at a private space, such as a mall, restaurant, or car park
• Reports cannot be fully anonymous as contact details are required for verification, but complainants are generally protected and may only be contacted if needed as witnesses
• Accidental littering may result in warnings, but acts involving items like cigarette butts or food wrappers are usually treated as deliberate offences
• Offenders may be ordered to perform community service, such as cleaning public areas, collecting waste, washing, painting, or cutting grass
• The Magistrates' court decides the punishment after the enforcement authorities carry out investigations
• Failing to complete community service is a separate offence and may result in additional fines or imprisonment
• Offenders may appeal or request alternative punishments, with the court considering the litterer's medical or personal circumstances
• Shop owners or operators can be fined if rubbish is found outside their premises and they fail to maintain cleanliness
• If the litterer is underage, parents or guardians are legally responsible and may receive fines or service orders
• Repeat offenders are tracked and may face higher fines and longer community service periods
• The law is enforced by SWCorp officers and local council enforcement personnel
• Tourists and foreigners are subject to the same rules and penalties, including fines and mandatory community service
Section 77 of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act (Amendment) 2025 is the new provision governing littering offences, which took effect on 1 January 2026
In the months leading up to the new year, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming repeatedly reminded the public that stricter enforcement measures would be implemented.
Nga had said that offenders would be required to wear a "special vest" while carrying out tasks such as picking up litter in public spaces, cleaning drains, and washing public toilets.
Just last week, three Singaporeans were among 120 individuals who were issued compound notices for the offence.
Nga expressed hope that the stricter enforcement would help make Malaysia cleaner than Singapore.
