This is a full version of NEA’s reply issued to the media agency; published in The Straits Times, 8 Jun 2019.
We thank Mr Mok Soh Han for his feedback in “Not right anti-littering message” (ST, 31 May).
We agree with Mr Mok that everyone has a part to play in upholding the high standards of cleanliness and public health in Singapore. We are encouraged that the vast majority of residents do bin their litter and some even participate actively in litter picking activities. Through these actions, they demonstrate gracious and responsible behaviour, while showing consideration to our fellow residents and cleaners alike.
Unfortunately, there are a minority of residents who still litter. The National Environment Agency (NEA) takes a firm stand against such litterbugs and takes strict enforcement action against those who litter. In 2018, about 39,000 tickets were issued for littering offences, and about 2,600 repeat offenders were made to perform Correct Work Order (CWO). Both numbers are higher than in 2017.
Notwithstanding, NEA takes a multi-pronged approach to littering. Besides enforcement, NEA also devotes significant resources to engage a wide range of stakeholders in the community to promote social graciousness and a greater sense of ownership in keeping Singapore clean. These stakeholders include residents, schools, communities, private and public organisations, as well as foreign workers. Many of these stakeholders conduct ground-up activities such as litter-picking brisk walks, beach and park clean-up exercises, and cleaner appreciation days. Our Litter-Free Ambassadors lead by example to encourage everyone in their communities to keep our shared spaces clean.
Mr Mok suggested that enforcement officers should exercise discretion to give warning to littering offenders. There are strict guidelines and SOPs for enforcement officers to follow, and they undergo structured training to carry out their roles effectively. Beyond these, due to the nature and consequence of enforcement actions, discretion is minimised to avoid ambiguity and ensure the integrity of the enforcement process. NEA will continue to complement our enforcement efforts by working with like-minded stakeholders, as well as partnering the Public Hygiene Council to achieve a clean and liveable environment.
Tony Teo (Mr)
Director, Environmental Public Health Operations
National Environment Agency