KUCHING: The public have been warned to stop dumping used face masks on the streets or risk being fined RM100.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the council could penalise those who did not dispose their rubbish properly under the Local Authorities (Cleanliness) by Laws 1999.
“I saw a few used face masks discarded at the Stutong Market car parks. It is sad to see such a selfish act.
“The used masks should be thrown into the rubbish bins. We need to keep the city clean, tidy and safe, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic,” he told New Sarawak Tribune on Sunday (June 21).
Wee appealed to the public to be more considerate and responsible in keeping the surrounding and environment clean.
He said face masks were available to protect the people, especially against the Covid-19 virus.
“After wearing the masks, fold them, place them in plastic sheets and throw them into the rubbish bins. Please be responsible good citizens,” he said.
Wee also urged the public to snap pictures of anyone discarding face masks on the streets and send them to the council so that actions could be taken against the latter.
Meanwhile, a Good Samaritan in the city who wished to remain anonymous helped to pick up more than 100 used face masks in a day in his neighbourhood recently.
The individual said he was very concerned that people were still dumping used face masks everywhere because of the dangers they posed not only to the public but also the environment.
“I hope the citizens are more responsible and that the relevant authorities will solve these problems,” he said.
