Bags of rubbish collected offshore during the cleanup were transported to the mainland for disposal. — Photo taken from DBKK’s Facebook page
KOTA Kinabalu (KK) is elevating its approach to urban cleanliness, expanding efforts beyond streets and markets to include the city’s vibrant coastal waters.
Through the KK Cleanup Day initiative, Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) is showcasing a holistic vision for Sabah’s capital – one that values both land and sea in the pursuit of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah emphasised that the initiative is about more than collecting litter.
“This is not just DBKK’s responsibility; it’s all of ours. A cleaner city means a healthier environment for everyone,” he said.
Launched in partnership with various agencies and community groups, the cleanup drive mobilises volunteers ranging from city council staff and students to environmentalists and concerned citizens. Their mission? To rid the city of waste and inspire a culture of environmental care.
While many urban cleanup efforts target streets and public spaces, KK Cleanup Day extends to the ocean. Marine waste poses an increasing threat to Sabah’s coastal biodiversity, and DBKK has partnered with local divers and NGOs to tackle the problem.
Volunteers brave the waters to recover discarded plastics, fishing nets and other harmful debris. Common finds include plastic bottles, tyres, and tangled fishing lines, all of which endanger marine life.
“Marine waste is an urgent issue,” noted one participant. “It doesn’t just harm wildlife; it affects tourism and the livelihoods of local communities.”
DBKK isn’t stopping at cleanup efforts alone. Through education and outreach campaigns, it aims to instil lasting behavioural change.
“School programmes, public talks and community workshops promote proper waste disposal and recycling habits,” said Sabin.
“Cleaning up is one thing, but preventing littering in the first place is key. We need to build a mindset where people take pride in keeping our city clean every day, not just during special events.”
The success of KK Cleanup Day has prompted discussions about making it a regular event.
DBKK is exploring ways to involve more businesses and organisations while strengthening enforcement of anti-littering laws and expanding recycling facilities across the city.
For now, DBKK and its volunteers have delivered a clear message: environmental responsibility starts with the people.
As more hands join the effort, Kota Kinabalu is poised to become not just a beautiful destination but a model city of sustainability and community pride.
