A YOUTH-LED cleanup at Kampung Chempaka Retention Pond in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, amassed 528.9kg of waste.
About 100 students from UCSI University, Inti International College and Brickfields Asia College took part in the “Belia On Sungai” (BOS) programme by Penggerak Belia Selangor, a state-led youth leadership initiative to drive grassroots youth development and volunteer efforts.
Digital Minister and Damansara MP Gobind Singh Deo said the programme brought together local communities and university students in a collaborative river-cleaning initiative.
He said a community-based approach was crucial in fostering a shared sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation and sustainability.
“We will ensure more programmes of this nature are organised to strengthen public commitment towards protecting the environment, particularly our rivers,” he added.
State public health and environment committee chairman and Bandar Utama assemblyman Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the retention pond had been cleaned many times by different groups in the past, and was safe and suitable for such activities.
“I am grateful that this time the initiative involved youths from higher education institutions.
“I believe the memories and experiences gained through activities like this at a young age can play an important role in fostering civic-consciousness over the long term.
“They will also gain a better understanding of river ecosystems and the importance of environmental conservation.
“We hope to see cleanups like this carried out several times a year,” she added.
Among the participants was Haresh Suri, 21, from Inti International College, who said the cleanup was eye-opening, especially on the effects of littering.
“We picked up a lot of rubbish, including diapers, plastic bags and bottles.
“People may not know that the one or two pieces of rubbish that they throw can clog up waterways, until they see it for themselves.
“This is the first time I am taking part, and I look forward to doing more activities like this,” he said.
Eunice Ko, 21, from UCSI University, said picking up the rubbish was very tiring, but she was happy that the pond was now clean.
MBPJ councillor Leong Chee Cheng said companies and organisations could conduct similar activities, with it being a great opportunity to foster team spirit and environmental awareness.
“I will be happy to advise on the necessary arrangements for this kind of event,” he added.
