KOTA KINABALU: Efforts to involve Sandakan’s Kampung Pukat residents in maintaining their surroundings kicked off with a successful clean-up operation.
Led by Karamunting assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin, the initiative cleared over 100 tonnes of waste accumulated at Bridge 1, Kampung Pukat.
Hiew hopes the community will continue to keep the area clean.
"The operation, which removed a significant amount of rubbish, has greatly improved the hygiene and environmental conditions of the area."
"We hope residents will appreciate these efforts by keeping the area clean and refraining from dumping waste into the sea," Hiew said.
He urged the community to work together in protecting the marine ecosystem and preserving the natural beauty of Kampung Pukat.
Kampung Pukat - one of Sandakan’s earliest Chinese settlements - was once a fishing hub.
Today, it is known for its seafood delicacies, dried seafood products, and salted fish, attracting both local and international visitors. However, maintaining cleanliness has been a challenge.
With the holiday season approaching, Hiew anticipates a surge in visitors eager to enjoy the area’s seafood offerings, making it essential to enhance the area’s appearance and ensure a positive image for the community.
The clean-up, which targeted Bridge 1 and the surrounding areas, used heavy machinery and successfully removed the waste in just four days, greatly improving the area’s cleanliness.
Hiew thanked the Sandakan Municipal Council for their steadfast support, which included deploying cleaning teams and arranging waste transport.
"We urge residents and business owners to collaborate in keeping Kampung Pukat clean. A pristine environment will not only attract more visitors but also stimulate the local economy and boost the tourism industry," he said.
The Kampung Pukat Community Association also supported the initiative, working alongside the team to ensure its success.
