MCC’s cleanliness efforts hampered by illegal dumping – Mayor
MIRI: Illegal dumping is hampering efforts by Miri City Council ( MCC) to maintain the city’s cleanliness, says mayor Adam Yii.
According to him, the council not only faces a tough fight in combating illegal dumping, but has to bear the additional cost to clear the dumped waste as well.
“Efforts to keep Miri city clean is indeed a tough task for the council. However, we believe that the goal to combat illegal dumping can be achieved with continuous support from city dwellers via tip- offs,” he told reporters after chairing a full council meeting on Monday.
He said it is important that members of the public act as MCC’s eyes and ears in reporting cases of illegal dumping.
“Under the Local Authorities (Cleanliness) By-Laws 1999, it is an offence to dump waste illegally in public places.
“Anyone who comes across illegal dumping within MCC’s jurisdiction should report it to the council by providing us information as well as pictures captured using their smartphones.”
Yii said those found guilty of illegal dumping shall be liable to a fine of RM1,000 for the first offence, and RM2,000- fine or six months’ jail for any subsequent offence.
He also revealed that on April 10, MCC compounded a company for conducting illegal dumping at the Lutong old airstrip area.
“The public tip- off on the illegal dumping activity at Lutong old airstrip area enabled the council to take enforcement action.
“We issued a compound of RM1,000 to the company owner for illegally dumping construction waste in the area. The owner was also directed to clear the dumped waste.”