When making a decision on things that are important to us, we think not once, not twice, but almost a zillion times! 
However, when it comes to our every day activities, especially those we do in passing, some develop into habits that have a ripple effect on everything else that happens around us. One such thing is waste disposal.

According to a report by Bernama, 60% of the 32 million Malaysian population still fails when it comes to disposing their garbage into trash bins although there are plenty of them around.

Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin said the habit of proper disposal of garbage is something that is still yet to be cultivated among the many local communities that exist.

In addressing the efforts that should be taken to make Malaysia a clean country, Zuraida referred to a habit that is prevalent among citizens of developed countries. 
“People in developed nations keep their trash in their handbags or pockets before finding a trash can to dispose them into. We Malaysians should develop this habit too as it is going to make a huge difference to our environment and general hygiene.

The Minister also said local authorities and resident associations would implement more publicity and awareness campaigns to help cultivate proper garbage disposal habits among Malaysians.

However, such measures have been in place since the dawn of Malaysia. What we have witnessed, however, is an increase in the amount of garbage found lying around where bits and pieces of the greenery left around us should be visible.
There is only so much these programs can do to make a difference in this epidemic. What really needs to change is the ‘tidak-apa’ mentality that is prevalent among Malaysian communities. Education begins at home. Let’s take it upon us to educate ourselves, our peers and eventually the future generation on ethical and responsible disposal of trash, the choice is in our hands when it comes to thinking before we act.

For more informative reads, stay tuned to RAAGA!