KUCHING, July 30: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has reminded the public to properly dispose of all waste, especially used masks, gloves and sanitising wipes, by placing the items in the trash in securely tied bags to ensure a safe environment for everyone during the ongoing pandemic.
MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang emphasised that people needed to take an active role in keeping the environment clean and safe for living which is especially crucial during this Covid-19 pandemic period.
“We need everyone to help in stopping and preventing illegal dumping which is unsightly and can cause major public health and safety concerns.
“There are many common areas for dumping, including vacant properties, alleyways, commercial dumpsters, and along the roadside,” he pointed out in a statement today.
Illegal dumping issue has been raised in the PMC full council meeting held via Zoom today.
Lo revealed that among the common areas for illegal dumping under PMC jurisdiction include Jalan Kangkok, Kuching City Mall area, Jalan Arang, Jalan Ensing Timur and Jalan Khung Phin Ulu.
“Most illegal dumping is done to avoid paying the disposal fees at designated landfills or failure to take the time and effort to dispose of the items properly.
“Dumping causes devaluation of property, health hazards and storm water pollution. Items dumped and pollutants find their way into the storm drains and clogged drains thus causing flooding. They also harm the fish, wildlife and plants,” he said.
Lo added that the PMC has spent approximately RM128,000 last year just to clear illegal dumping in various areas.
He warned that illegal dumping was an offence under the By-law 18(3) of the Local Authorities (Cleanliness) By-laws 1999.
“Any person found guilty of dumping waste illegally can be fined RM1,000 for the first offence and, in the case of second or subsequent offence, a further fine of RM2,000 or imprisonment for six months or both,” he added. —DayakDaily
