FOLLOWING the recent renovations led by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the Air Itam public toilet has undergone a notable transformation, boasting enhanced facilities and aesthetic improvements.
MBPP councillor Rohaizat Hamid emphasised the council’s dedication to delivering clean and comfortable public amenities amid the daily challenge of accommodating hundreds of visitors.
According to MBPP’s Urban Services Department census, the Air Itam public toilet registers a daily footfall ranging from 91 to 350 visitors between 6.30am to 8pm.
Rohaizat shared that the maintenance and upgrading cost amounted to RM61,471.40, with an urge for public cooperation in preserving the cleanliness of the facility.
“The total investment in maintaining and upgrading this facility amounted to RM22,296.20, supplemented by an extra RM39,175.20 allocated towards aesthetic improvements,” Rohaizat said during a press conference at the Air Itam public toilet today.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng expressed gratitude to MBPP for the upgrade efforts, highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining the newly refurbished toilet.
He acknowledged the decline in cleanliness standards and emphasised the positive impact of the recent renovations, including a larger water tank for improved water supply.
“We express gratitude to MBPP for its diligent efforts in upgrading the restroom.
“Formerly, the Air Itam public toilet garnered accolades for its cleanliness; however, there was a subsequent decline in cleanliness standards,” Ng said.
Ng commended the dedication of MBPP staff, particularly Sohaimi Ahmad, a deaf and mute employee, responsible for the toilet’s maintenance. Ng urged collective efforts to uphold the facility’s condition.
He also extended appreciation to Muhammad Syafiq Azmi, 33, and Ahmad Muaz Fadzil, 25, who were the MBPP staff responsible for the vibrant mural art, contributing to a livelier atmosphere.
The comprehensive upgrade, initiated in September, was successfully completed last month, marking a positive shift in the Air Itam public toilet’s overall quality.
Also present were MPKK Kampung Pisang chairman Alan Ngooi and Persatuan Penjaja Pasar Air Itam chairman Ooi Thean Huat.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radz