But, in a surprising turn of events, 10 Seberang Perai Municipal Council employees charged with keeping the streets clean have been recognised for their dedicated service.

TheSun reported that they were conferred the Pingat Jasa Masyarakat (PJM) and Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas in conjunction with his 78th birthday celebrations.

It reported that Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng was grateful to these employees.

“They have transformed the cleanliness of Penang,” he said after taking a photo with the recipients.

TheSun interviewed one of the recipients, Wazmi Johari Abdul Rahim, 43, a council assistant health officer, who said he was very thankful for the recognition given.

He ensures street cleanliness and said the award would spur him to work harder.