The Ministry of Local Government Development (KPKT) has addressed the concern and advice of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan of Johor regarding the cleaning work in the low cost flats at Taman Ungku Tun Aminah (TUTA), Skudai, Johor Bahru when receiving Nga Kor Ming, Minister of Local Government Development on 15 May 2023.
In a statement, KPKT said that TUTA Low Cost Flats consists of 88 flat blocks and 4,089 house units that are over 40 years old with a high population density.
Several problems have been identified, namely outdated infrastructure, a low level of awareness of the importance of keeping clean, as well as a lack of funds due to low collection of management charges.
“KPKT has instructed the concession company SWM Environment Sdn Bhd to take immediate action to improve service performance in the area as stipulated in the concession agreement and assist other agencies such as residents’ associations, the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP), and the State Government for cleaning work outside the scope of service work,” said the statement.
“Until 17 May 2023, a total of 50 members and a total of 10 Roll on Roll Off (RORO) vehicles, 3 bulldozers and compactor trucks have been mobilised to carry out cleaning and solid waste collection work around the Flat TUTA area.”
According to the statement, an estimated 90 tons of bulk waste piles have been collected and disposed of at the landfill. 50 units of wheelie bins (WB) have been changed, 449 WB units have been repaired for all 88 blocks in the flat. Cleaning also includes grass cutting and cleaning of clogged drains around the TUTA Flat area.
The Minister of Local Government Development, Nga Kor Ming in the statement was quoted that, “The ministry appreciates the concern of His Majesty, the Sultan of Johor for the quality of hygiene and a comfortable environment for the benefit of the people.”
He added that the issue of cleanliness is a shared responsibility, and each community group should play their own role; especially those who live in flats and share public facilities provided by PBT, including solid waste services.
“The residents’ committee needs to be ready to mobilize energy to foster high neighbourhood spirit and a sense of responsibility to maintain a clean and safe environment in the neighbourhood.”
In this case, Flat TUTA which has 88 blocks and 4089 housing units, only managed to collect 15% of the maintenance charge, while there are 10 blocks that do not have residents’ committees.
“This matter needs to be researched and improved to ensure long-term environmental change.”
KM also added, “KPKT is aware of the maintenance needs of TUTA which is estimated at RM26.3 million. Among the planned maintenance includes painting the blocks, upgrading irrigation and drainage in phases, repairing the wiring system, maintaining the existing drainage system and beautifying the landscape. KPKT will work with the State Government and PBT to help with this effort.”
As a result, KPKT is dedicated to resolving this issue and will continue to collaborate with residents, building management, Local Authorities (PBT), and the State Government to improve the quality of solid waste management and cleaning services, particularly in the state of Johor.
Furthermore, as a long-term measure to maintain the level of cleanliness in TUTA flats, KPKT will hold a series of engagements by establishing collaboration with the Management Corporation (MC) and residents for the implementation of community education programmes and public awareness related to sustainable waste management, waste separation programme at the source (SAS – Separation At Source); 3R (Reduce-Reuse-Recycle); Reward recycling programmes, and identify suitable locations for recycling.
KPKT will also ensure continuous monitoring and enforcement measures for residents and members of the public who do not comply with existing rules governing solid waste disposal and public area cleaning.
Feedback and complaints from various sources are encouraged in order to improve the quality of solid waste management and public cleaning across the country. Talian Indahkan Malaysia can be reached at 1800-88-7472.
