The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has unveiled a RM150 million funding package for upgrading public toilets nationwide between 2026 and 2030. The budget will be distributed annually at RM30 million each year, focusing on maintenance, repairs, and modernization efforts managed by local authorities (PBTs). This financial commitment aims to enhance community access while supporting domestic manufacturers of sanitary fittings and public facility technologies.
KPKT Minister Nga Kor Ming disclosed the initiative during the Toilet of the Year Award 2026 (TOTYA’26) ceremony. The allocation builds on previous investments, with RM154 million already approved since 2023 for similar projects covering 1,529 toilets across the country. The minister emphasized that the new funding will ensure sustained improvements in public sanitation infrastructure.
This year’s TOTYA’26 ceremony recognized eight outstanding facilities, including Sunway Square Mall, Petronas Presint 18, and Iconic Marjorie Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, alongside winners from schools, places of worship, and rest areas. The number of nominations surged to 849 in 2024, up from 345 the previous year, indicating heightened attention to hygiene standards. The Bersih, Menawan dan Wangi (BMW) program, which encourages clean and pleasant toilet environments, will now extend its awards to tertiary education institutions beginning next year.
Nga Kor Ming stressed that public toilet quality represents a key aspect of national development. “National progress is not measured only by magnificent skyscrapers, but also by the quality of basic facilities enjoyed by every segment of society,” he said. The ministry also commended Petron Malaysia for maintaining high-rated toilets at over 90% of its petrol stations, a standard recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records.
A six-star BMW-i Smart Toilet pilot facility opened at Dataran Putra in Putrajaya, equipped with advanced features such as motion sensors, automatic bidets, and digital monitoring systems. The ministry intends to expand the initiative to Kuala Lumpur and state capitals, particularly in tourist hotspots.
