A Singapore-registered car occupant was caught littering in Malaysia when they threw an orange peel out of the passenger window while waiting at a traffic light. The act did not go unnoticed, as another driver exited his vehicle, picked up the discarded peel, and returned it to the litterbug. This incident, captured on TikTok, has sparked a conversation about responsibility and public behaviour.
Background
The video, which began circulating on social media around September 15, shows a man in a khaki shirt, jeans, and sunglasses approaching a black Mitsubishi with a Singapore-registered licence plate. He briefly knocked on the car’s window before bending down to pick up the orange peel left on the road. The man then handed the peel back through the partially-opened passenger window and had a brief exchange with the car’s occupants before returning to his own vehicle. The incident is speculated to have taken place in Klang Valley, Selangor, although the exact date and time remain unspecified.
The video
In the TikTok clip, the man’s actions were clear and deliberate. He approached the littering vehicle, picked up the orange peel, and returned it to the occupants, demonstrating a straightforward act of civic responsibility. The video, shared by user @afn.performance, included a caption encouraging others to be brave and responsible in similar situations. The caption also humorously noted that the man’s wife held him back, implying that the situation could have escalated further.
Public reaction
The video garnered significant attention online, with many users condemning the occupants of the Singapore-registered vehicle for their behaviour. Comments ranged from calling out the disgrace brought upon other Singaporeans to expressing admiration for the man who returned the litter. One user remarked, “Maybe at home also they just throw their leftovers on the floor. Such a shame for an adult to behave this way.” Another suggested that Malaysia should ban the car from entering the country and fine the driver.
Broader implications
This incident highlights ongoing issues of littering and public responsibility, especially in cross-border contexts. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining cleanliness and respect for public spaces, regardless of where one is. The swift action of the man in the video sets an example for others to follow, promoting a culture of accountability and respect.
Related incidents
This is not the first time such incidents have sparked public outrage. Previous occurrences of littering and public misconduct have led to discussions about stricter enforcement of laws and the need for greater public awareness. As social media continues to play a role in highlighting these issues, it remains to be seen how authorities and the public will respond to ensure better behaviour in the future.
