A heritage walk and cleanup took some 200 participants around Klang, Selangor, to mark World Earth Day.
The community-driven “Walk in Klang, Care for Klang” was organised by Persatuan Peminat Warisan Klang (Jalan-jalan Klang) and Persatuan Penganut Buddha Ban Foo Klang, and supported by Klang Royal City Council (MBDK), Tourism Selangor and Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre.
Participants collected about 98kg of recyclable wastes in an hour, demonstrating strong community engagement in environmental care.
Mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain said Klang, as one of the oldest towns in Selangor, held significant historical value that must be preserved for future generations.
He said the programme, which integrated a guided heritage walk with cleanup activity, reflected the concept of “voluntourism” (volunteer tourism) – allowing participants to explore cultural landmarks while contributing to environmental sustainability.
“The initiative aligns with ESG (environmental, social and governance) principles by promoting environmental awareness, community participation and collaborative efforts,” he added.
Abd Hamid also pointed out that supporting activities such as e-waste collection, recycling exhibitions, dengue awareness displays and recycling workshops, though small in scale, contributed towards long-term environmental sustainability and public awareness.
Prior to the walk, participants were briefed on waste segregation practices, encouraging them to separate recyclables from general waste during the cleanup.
This approach not only improved the efficiency of waste collection and data tracking, but also served as a practical educational tool for participants to better understand responsible waste management, according to a Jalan-jalan Klang press release.
The event also saw strong participation from families, with parents involving their children in the cleanup as well as arts and craft activities.
Through hands-on involvement, children were exposed to the importance of environmental responsibility while also learning about Klang’s rich history and heritage.
This combination of environmental action and cultural education, the group said, reflected a growing emphasis on community-based learning.
Local businesses also contributed to the initiative by sponsoring drinks and light refreshments for volunteers.
Jalan-jalan Klang chairman Fai Hoong Fai said the programme aimed to promote sustainable tourism by combining heritage appreciation with community service, in line with ESG values.
The group hopes that such initiatives will continue to inspire greater public participation and position Klang as a green and culturally rich destination in Selangor.
