Mixed reactions to litterbugs in ‘monkey’ vest

PETALING JAYA: The move by the authorities in Semporna, Sabah, to order litterbugs to wear a special vest embossed with the word “monyet” (monkey) has drawn mixed views on social media.

Some netizens supported the action on those caught littering and who opted to do a one-hour cleanup, instead of paying a RM500 fine. Others said it was excessive. “Good! Put on a VERY bright neon vest with big capital letters at the back that says litterbug or trash monkey,” Ken Robert wrote on Facebook.

“Monyet? Why need to shame them. They are already doing community service,” wrote Nic Ong.

At least nine litterbugs caught so far in the east coast town opted to wear the special vest and pick up rubbish for an hour.

The move is in line with the local council’s anti-litter theme, which states that only monkeys throw rubbish indiscriminately.

According to reports, Semporna district officer Bianus Kontong was quoted as saying that litterbugs were given a choice of paying a fine or do community service for an hour.

He said all those caught so far could not pay the fine and opted to clean up specific areas.

A major push against litterbugs in the coastal town, which draws thousands of tourists to its worldclass diving sites such as Sipadan, came into force on Jan 1.