PUBLIC cleanliness is a collective duty and not just the responsibility of the authorities, says Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim.
“It’s not just the responsibility of the local authority or cleaning workers.
“We all have our respective responsibilities.
“If we cannot maintain cleanliness starting with ourselves, we should not dream of becoming a progressive society,” he said at the launch of “Kajang Bersih, Kajang Di Hatiku” (KBKD) 5.0 at SMK Jalan Bukit.
Adam Adli said building lasting awareness required active engagement, and expressed hope that KBKD could become an enduring part of Kajang’s identity.
“Kajang Bersih, Kajang Di Hatiku” aims to foster civic awareness, personal discipline and environmental responsibility among youth, encouraging them to take ownership of their local community.
Meanwhile, the sixth edition of the campaign, themed “Bersih Kendiri, Persekitaran Lestari Madani”, was launched at SMK Bandar Sungai Long by Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohd Taufiq Johari.
First held at SMK Saujana Impian in 2024, the campaign expanded to SMK Taman Jasmin 2 in 2025, and then to SMK Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah and SMK Tinggi Kajang earlier this year.
Kajang assemblyman David Cheong Kian Young, who is heading the campaign under his office, said KBKD encouraged the younger generation to treat Kajang as their home.
“When we talk about changing a city, we often imagine major development projects that require millions of ringgit.
“In reality, change can also begin with very small actions,” he said, noting that taking responsibility for classrooms and neighbourhoods could help students cultivate discipline for broader societal roles.
The campaign had also expanded personal cleanliness to include a clean mind, positive attitudes and mutual respect, Cheong said.
“Students are reminded to stay away from drugs and illegal street racing, and to choose their friends wisely.”
He said true courage was not about taking part in dangerous activities, but youth having the courage to reject wrongdoing that could jeopardise their future.
He urged students to surround themselves with peers who encouraged learning, corrected mistakes and inspired good deeds.
The campaign launches featured hands-on activities such as plogging, cleanups and tree planting, alongside educational sessions covering recycling, dengue prevention, anti-bullying and the dangers of drugs.
There were also student performances and exhibition booths.
KDEB Waste Management is a partner in “Kajang Bersih, Kajang Di Hatiku”, while key agencies supporting the campaign include Kajang Municipal Council, the police, Hulu Langat National Anti-Drug Agency, Universiti Selangor and Universiti Islam Selangor.
