Over a weekend, Aster & Begonia 2020 residents association (RA) organised a “Tukar Tong Sampah Lama” community project in Forest Heights with the assistance of SWM Environment Sdn Bhd and Seremban City Council (MBS).
The project went smoothly for three hours that morning, with residents who registered to have their old bin exchanged for a new one coming within the stipulated time.
Residents were cooperative and patient as they lined up to have their particulars verified by SWM staff before the exchange was made.
Those who had not collected their rubbish bins from SWM after moving in were also allowed to apply for a bin.
By the end of the session, 98 bins were distributed to residents.
As a show of appreciation to our RA and those involved in the project, we ordered some food and beverages and placed them on a table under a canopy.
However, it was really disheartening to see a small group of residents take advantage of the situation by helping themselves to the food and beverages.
One individual was seen taking home what was specifically intended for the hard-working staff of SWM and our volunteers and helpers.
This behaviour not only undermined the efforts of those who participated, but also disrespected the spirit of community that we in the RA strive to cultivate.
Therefore, I believe that bringing this matter to public attention will help raise awareness about the importance of respect and fairness in community projects.
To prevent further misunderstandings, I strongly suggest that residents who wish to have the food and beverages at these events to check with the organising committee first.
Lastly, while we want to ensure a culture of appreciation for our volunteers and helpers for making these community-based projects possible, I would suggest that the RA implement a system where food and beverages will be distributed to volunteers and helpers after the event.
MICHAEL NG
Seremban, Negri Sembilan
