Malaysia welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn by its food, landscapes, and vibrant cities. Keeping these shared spaces clean is part of being a responsible traveller. As tourist numbers grow, the authorities are reinforcing a clear message. Dispose of rubbish properly, respect local laws, and help preserve the places you came to enjoy.
Khalid bin Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer of Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp), has issued a clear reminder to tourists and visitors to respect Malaysia’s public spaces by disposing of rubbish properly.
From 1 January 2026, stricter enforcement measures under the amended Act 672 will come into force. Anyone found throwing small waste outside designated rubbish bins may be taken to court. This includes common items such as food wrappers, drink bottles, and other everyday litter often discarded while sightseeing.
Enforcement officers will monitor public areas, including tourist hotspots. If found guilty, offenders may be ordered by the court to carry out up to 12 hours of community service. These measures apply to both adults and children. Where minors are involved, the authorities will work with Jakim to provide guidance and corrective support.
Tourists are not excluded from enforcement. SWCorp will work closely with the Immigration Department to ensure that foreign visitors comply with local cleanliness laws. Visitors are expected to follow the same rules as residents when using public spaces.
Khalid stressed that the objective is not to embarrass or punish for the sake of punishment. Malaysia has run education and awareness campaigns on cleanliness for many years, yet littering continues to affect public areas and tourist destinations.
Visitors are encouraged to play their part by using provided rubbish bins and keeping shared spaces clean. Respecting local laws helps preserve the country’s environment and ensures a pleasant experience for everyone. How tourists behave today shapes how destinations are cared for tomorrow.
