MIRI: The Miri City Council (MCC) has intensified its efforts to enforce the Cleanliness Bylaw under Sections 18 and 26, targeting business owners who misuse public spaces such as five-foot ways, parking areas, and the rear of shops.
The latest operation, conducted from 9 am to 12 pm today with support from the police, focused on areas around the city centre, particularly at Centre Point, to address the widespread issue of shop owners placing goods in unauthorised public areas.
“Goods from shop premises placed in public areas such as sidewalks, parking spaces, and the rear of shops can mar the image and appearance of Miri City, cause disturbances, and pose safety threats to the public, especially to road users and pedestrians,” said MCC in a statement.
During the operation, one electrical appliance shop was found in violation of the bylaw, leading to the seizure of several items, including refrigerators, chillers, water purifiers, electric water dispensers, ovens, and fans.
The council said the shop owner had previously been warned and fined but failed to comply, necessitating further action.
MCC reaffirmed that similar operations will continue periodically, and urged all business owners to refrain from misusing sidewalks, parking spaces, and public areas to ensure that the city remains clean, safe, and orderly.
In addition to enforcement, the MCC provided advisory services to business owners, stressing the importance of keeping public areas free from shop or personal items.
The council warned that non-compliance would lead to continued enforcement actions, including the seizure of goods.
