IN an effort to foster a clean and sustainable environment in George Town, a pilot project aimed at eliminating the use of traditional dustbins is set to take place along Linear Park in Esplanade, starting in the middle of next month.
Initiated by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) in collaboration with the Penang Green Council (PGC) and other relevant authorities, the idea is to encourage the public to throw their rubbish at other designated places instead.
Sharing the details of the pilot project to Buletin Mutiara, councillor Benji Ang Ming Quan said such a concept has been implemented in other foreign countries.
“This marks a new beginning for us, as we understand many people may not be accustomed to such a practice. However, this is nothing to worry about as we will conduct a series of engagements and educational programmes.
“We aim to educate the public not only to refrain from littering but also to bring their own trash home for disposal.
“We look forward to the launch of this programme by the middle of next month and hope to see its expansion across the state in the future,” he said.
Ang pointed out that MBPP has currently placed a few bins in the area.
“However, these bins will be removed by the department once the initiative gains momentum,” he said.
Regarding enforcement, Ang said enforcement officers would be stationed to offer advice to the public regarding the new practice.
“We are planning to instal screens along the park to capture instances of littering.
“On top of that, the closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) in the vicinity will be upgraded as well.
“If anyone is caught littering, their actions will be recorded and uploaded to the MBPP’s social media page,” warned Ang.
Ang said the signage to educate the public would be ready soon.
“The Linear Park in Esplanade is a well-known spot for the people to carry out their recreational activities, and we hope the initiative will benefit the community,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ang pointed out that such a concept has also been implemented in Desa Mawar Park in Air Itam.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En