Maintenance culture not strong in Malaysia

ONE of the many issues of public concern is how to develop a strong maintenance culture in Malaysia, in the interest of public safety and convenience.

Malaysia is known as a country that prides itself on providing First World infrastructure – but not in terms of the maintenance of this infrastructure.

The collapse of structures in new government buildings and stadiums and other defects are still fresh in our minds. Problems of such nature are not only embarrassing but also far too serious to be ignored.

Poor maintenance of public buildings and infrastructure can lead to accidents and injuries. Public toilets that are not properly maintained can cause public incon- venience. Cleanliness in most if not all public toilets, including those in government buildings, is highly deplorable and does not speak well of our work ethic and maintenance culture.

Poorly maintained children’s playgrounds can also result in accidents and injuries. Roads and public drains not properly maintained can cause flash floods. Potholes left unattended for weeks greatly inconvenience motorists.

Failure to prune tree branches and leaves that obstruct road signs along our highways, and federal, state and town roads not only cause inconvenience to motorists but also affect road safety.

These unpleasant occurrences are a reflection of a Malaysian malaise clearly manifested in infe- rior quality work, poor execution, inept management, poor maintenance and a lack of ethics.

The comment that Malaysia is a country “with First World infrastructure but a Third World mentality” is very true when it comes to maintenance.

I have pointed out on numerous occasions that maintenance and service have never been the country’s forte. We are good at providing state-of-the-art buildings and equipment but when it comes to maintaining them and keeping them functioning properly we have many shortcomings and weaknesses.

All authorities and every Malaysian must learn the culture of strong maintenance and make it a way of life. Improving a country’s image is not only the responsibility of the government but also the duty of each citizen who must be civic-minded. Despite Malaysia’s success in economic development, we have not succeeded in developing a civic-minded society.

Indiscriminate throwing of litter is still very common despite anti-littering campaigns. It is for this reason that habitual offenders must be made to perform community service, as imposing fines on the culprits does not seem to be a deterrent.

Let it not be said that Malaysians work hard to pursue wealth and success but lose sight of their civic obligations. TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE Kuala Lumpur