“Disgusting!” That phrase is often heard when it comes to public toilets in Malaysia. Sometimes the users might want to think twice before using the public toilets in Malaysia. Malaysian public toilets certainly do not have the good reputation. The awareness level of public toilet cleanliness in Malaysia is still at a very low level. According to 2013 statistics, only 61 percent of 10,257 public toilets are reported to be in a satisfactory condition.

Public toilets are one of the public facilities that will be used by all segments of society, including tourists from abroad. The nation’s image will be tarnished by poor public toilet cleanliness. The cleanliness of public toilets reflects the civilisation of a society. Dirty toilets show that the public are less concerned on hygiene and are irresponsible in maintaining the cleanliness of public facilities.

In addition, keeping public toilet cleans can be considered as part of patriotism. Maintaining the cleanliness of public toilets means upholding the country’s dignity.

Those people who do not clean up the public toilets are not civic-minded and lack toilet etiquette. The most common ethical offences are:

• Do not flush the toilet after use;
   
• Squat on a toilet bowl;
   
• Dispose off tissues, cigarette butts and sanitary pads into the toilet bowl;
   
• Spreading water on the floor;
   
• Wasting the tissue paper and dirtying the toilet floor; and
   
• Do not put trash in the bins provided.

Furthermore, lack of a sense of belonging could be another factor of the low level of public toilet cleanliness. Keeping public toilets clean does not solely lie on the cleaners but it is a part of our responsibility as a consumer. Maintaining the cleanliness of public toilet is everyone’s responsibility.

Having access to safe and clean toilets is part of human rights. Therefore, the authorities such as the Housing and Urban Wellbeing and Local Government Ministry must intensify its public toilet campaigns so that a number of public toilets in Malaysia could achieve three-star rating. In addition, local authorities should also conduct regular supervision on public cleansing contractors who have been appointed to ensure that public toilets are in good condition and safe.

So, in conjunction to World Toilet Day this upcoming Nov 19, 2016, let us together move forward in achieving five-star rating for private and public toilets.

NUR IMANI ABDULLAH is with the Water and Energy Consumer Association (Wecam).