Tackle the rubbish problem to control dengue

IT is sad to know our authorities are still struggling to manage the current dengue outbreak.

And now there’s the threat of the Zika virus as well.

There are very simple ways to halt the spread of dengue. We all know the Aedes mosquitoes thrive in places filled with rubbish, clogged drains, and abandoned properties, among others.

Local authorities must be more efficient in clearing all these rubbish.

To do this, they need to break up their garbage collection operations into smaller zones so that they will be able to closely monitor the cleanliness of each area.

Regular patrolling and inviting feedback via social media (local authorities can open web portals for this) from residents can enhance the monitoring process.

Educating the public on the importance of keeping our streets clean is a must as well.

Awareness campaigns must be held on a regular basis to remind the public not to throw rubbish on the streets.

There are many who throw litter about without fear or any social concerns. They must be apprehended and punished for their misdeeds. I’m sure there are sufficient laws in place to punish litterbugs and discourage such behaviour.

I’m also very sure Malaysians, no matter which part of the country they are in, see rubbish scattered in drains, on road shoulders, back lanes and even shop fronts. There’s rubbish everywhere and it is really shameful.

Educating all Malaysians, young and old, on the need to keep our country clean will save lives. It will also make us proud to be living in a clean country.