Currently, the common practice of people is to dispose their waste in the rivers and on the streets. Many are more likely to litter on the roads while driving because they are more concerned about keeping their vehicles tidy rather than the cleanliness of public areas.
Littering on the road has become a phenomenon in Malaysia. Often, people arbitrarily throw the trash out of their vehicles, regardless of the security of other road users, especially motorcyclists.
Disposal of waste such as plastic food wrappers and tissue while driving can endanger the lives of other road users as plastic and paper are lightweight and easily scattered by the wind. They can momentarily block the vision of motorcyclists and other vehicles, causing them to lose focus on what is in front of them, leading to disastrous consequences.
In addition, the disposal of garbage on the road can worsen cleanliness as well as pollute the air with the stench. Streets are the main route used by everyone, including tourists from abroad. Roads filled with trash adversely affect the dignity of the country. In fact, we may even be labelled as polluters. Cleanliness is a major force in attracting foreign tourists.
Littering on roads can also affect the health of residents nearby. Piles of rubbish by the roadside can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes such as Aedes. The stench coming from garbage can attract rodents and flies. Mosquitoes, rats and flies are vectors carrying infectious diseases.
Maintaining public cleanliness is the responsibility of all parties. Motorists should obey the “No Littering” signboards so that trash is not thrown on the roads because these are public facilities.
The authorities also need to constantly monitor road users and punish road users who fail to obey the law.
Furthermore, enough trash cans must be placed along roads to facilitate disposal of trash. Place more bins in a residential areas, rest and recreation (R&R) areas and petrol stations. These bins also need to be emptied regularly.
Nur Imani Abdullah, Fomca
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