THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has urged members of the public to refrain from feeding birds, particularly pigeons, in public areas.
In a statement, MBPP said the practice encourages uncontrolled growth of bird populations, contributes to environmental pollution, compromises urban cleanliness and increases the risk of disease transmission.
“Public cooperation is crucial in ensuring that Penang continues to remain a clean, healthy, safe and sustainable city,” the statement said.
MBPP added that it will continue to strengthen efforts to safeguard urban cleanliness and public health through ongoing bird population control operations across its administrative areas.
According to statistics for June 2026, a total of 2,447 pigeons and 3,048 crows were culled during control operations conducted at identified bird hotspots.
“During the same period, 59 crow nests were also destroyed as a proactive measure to curb the breeding of the species and prevent further population growth,” the statement said.
Apart from population control operations, MBPP has also intensified enforcement against individuals caught feeding birds in public places.
Throughout June 2026, a total of 21 compounds were issued under Section 47(1)(g) of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 to individuals found committing the offence.
In line with amendments to the law that came into effect on July 1 this year, individuals convicted of feeding birds in public areas may face compounds of up to RM2,000. In addition, the court may order offenders to carry out Community Service Orders (CSO) for a period of up to 12 hours.
MBPP stressed that failure to comply with or complete a court-ordered Community Service Order constitutes an offence. Offenders may face further legal action, including fines ranging from RM2,000 to RM10,000, as provided under the amended legislation.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud and courtesy of MBPP