Starting January 1, anyone caught littering or spitting in public around Kuala Lumpur could face fines of up to RM2,000 and over 12 hours of community service spread across six months.

Director of DBKL’s Health and Environment Department, explained that this move is part of the city’s efforts to step up cleanliness, especially ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

She said regular anti-littering and anti-spitting operations will target tourist hotspots, focusing on small litter like cigarette butts and drink bottles, as well as spitting on walkways.

“This practice not only dirties the surroundings but also tarnishes the country’s image,” she said.

She added, “The compounds issued can reach up to RM2,000, depending on the offence committed. Our aim is not merely to punish, but also to educate the public to be more disciplined and to respect the shared public spaces.”

To further promote a clean city, DBKL has designated four litter-free zones: Jalan Bukit Bintang, Dataran Merdeka, Jalan Tun Perak, and the Brickfields commercial area. 

DBKL will also strictly monitor cleanliness at food premises and public toilets, taking action against those who fail to meet hygiene standards.

“We monitor about 7,450 food premises at all times to ensure there is no food contamination or pest infestations such as rats and cockroaches. DBKL also takes public toilet cleanliness seriously and will monitor from time to time or whenever complaints are received,” she said.