Minister Defends Claim of 20-Tonnes of Rubbish Left After 'Turun Anwar' Protest in KL, Citing SWCorp Data
Minister Stands Firm on 'Turun Anwar' Protest Rubbish Claim, Backed by SWCorp
KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 – Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has reaffirmed his assertion that a significant amount of rubbish, estimated at 20 tonnes, was left behind following Saturday's 'Turun Anwar' protest in Kuala Lumpur. The statement comes amidst scrutiny and questions regarding the accuracy of the figure.
Minister Nga clarified that the numbers were sourced from Solid Waste Corporation (SWCorp) Malaysia, the agency responsible for solid waste management and public sanitation. He defended his initial statement, emphasizing the need to highlight the impact of large gatherings on public cleanliness and the resources required for cleanup efforts.
What Happened at 'Turun Anwar'?
The 'Turun Anwar' protest, held on Saturday, drew a large crowd of participants advocating for various reforms and changes. While the event itself was largely peaceful, concerns arose regarding the substantial amount of waste left behind in the vicinity of Dataran Merdeka and surrounding areas. This included plastic bottles, food wrappers, banners, and other debris.
SWCorp’s Role and Data
According to SWCorp, their teams were deployed immediately after the protest to begin the cleanup operation. The 20-tonne figure represents the total weight of waste collected, requiring significant manpower and equipment to remove. Minister Nga’s decision to publicly share this data was intended to raise awareness about the responsibility of event organizers and participants in maintaining public spaces.
Public Reaction and Debate
The minister's statement has sparked a debate online, with some questioning the accuracy of the 20-tonne figure and suggesting that the amount of rubbish was exaggerated. Others have supported the minister, arguing that the cleanup costs and efforts should be acknowledged, and that participants should be more mindful of disposing of waste responsibly.
Minister Nga's Stance
Minister Nga reiterated his commitment to ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of public spaces in Kuala Lumpur and throughout Malaysia. He urged event organizers to plan for waste management and encourage participants to dispose of rubbish properly. He also emphasized the importance of public cooperation in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. “We rely on SWCorp's data and their assessment of the situation,” Nga stated. “It’s a significant amount of waste that requires considerable resources to clean up.”
Moving Forward: Responsibility and Awareness
The incident highlights the need for greater awareness and responsibility regarding waste management during public gatherings. Future events should incorporate comprehensive waste disposal plans, including designated bins and volunteer cleanup crews. Ultimately, a collective effort is required to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of our cities and protect the environment.