LITTERING RUINS AIDILFITRI VISITS TO JALAN PERAK MUSLIM CEMETERY

By Erma Idayu Mohd Yusof

GEORGE TOWN, March 28 (Bernama) -- As Muslims celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with gratitude, the quiet atmosphere that should have enveloped the Jalan Perak Muslim Cemetery here has been marred by a distressing sight.

The cemetery, believed to be one of the oldest and most renowned in northern Peninsular Malaysia, is not only a final resting place but also a site of historical significance and cherished memories for thousands of families. Yet, it is now littered with piles of rubbish left by a small number of irresponsible visitors.

A Bernama survey found that certain corners of the cemetery were strewn with plastic bottles, food waste, general litter and even discarded old tombstones, leaving relatives and visitors disheartened, especially during the festive season when many come to pay respects to their loved ones.

Resident Abdul Rashid Ibrahim, 77, expressed his frustration over a problem he says has persisted for years without a proper solution.

“This issue has been going on for years. I often visit, once or twice a month, to pay respects to my parents and family members here. But every Hari Raya Aidilfitri, there is a problem of rubbish piling up,” he told Bernama today.

The resident of Jalan Makloom here said the piles of rubbish cause discomfort for visitors returning home for Hari Raya celebrations, while tarnishing the image of the cemetery.

A cleaning worker in the area, who wished to remain anonymous, acknowledged that the problem becomes particularly severe during festive seasons.

“We do carry out regular cleaning, but during peak periods, we cannot control all visitors, and some of them leave behind rubbish,” he said.

Meanwhile, Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) Baitulmal manager Abu Mansur Maturidi Mohd Romli, said monitoring shows that the root of the problem is the irresponsible behaviour of visitors during festive seasons such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

He added that the improper disposal of various waste materials, including old tombstones, has affected both the cleanliness and dignity of the cemetery. 

“MAINPP takes the concerns raised seriously and has acted promptly, carrying out cleaning in the area yesterday to restore an orderly and well-maintained environment,” he said.

Abu Mansur Maturidi urged all visitors and relatives to take greater responsibility in keeping the cemetery clean. 

He stressed that the cooperation of everyone is essential to ensure the area remains tidy, well-managed and respected.

He added that the religious council will continue to enhance monitoring and is considering improvements, including implementing a more organised waste management system.

The cemetery, situated at Lot 10026, Section 6 in George Town, spans approximately seven acres (28,328 square metres). In use for over 50 years, it is now densely occupied with multiple layers of graves.

Owing to its long history and the site’s physical conditions, the exact number of graves is difficult to determine.

-- BERNAMA