ALOR STAR, Jan. 26 -- Litterbugs in Malaysia can no longer escape penalties, regardless of their nationality, under the amended Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007.

SWCorp chief executive officer Khalid Mohamed said a total of 494 offence notices have been issued nationwide as of yesterday, involving 377 locals and 117 foreigners, adding that enforcement is impartial.

"It is merely a coincidence (some of those punished were foreigners) as this is based on recorded offences," he was quoted by New Straits Times as telling reporters at the Alor Star Courts Complex here today.

"In fact, violations involve both locals and foreigners.

"We do not let any individual off."

The news outlet had earlier reported a 39-year-old In...