VOLUNTEERS, community groups, and local organisations gathered at Straits Quay recently to join a plogging event focused on making a positive impact on Penang’s environment.
The event, which combines jogging with litter-picking, brought together passionate individuals united by their commitment to a cleaner and greener future.
As a representative of Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, a local councillor from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) expressed gratitude to participants for dedicating their time and energy to this community initiative.
“Events like this remind us that environmental responsibility is not just a government effort; it is a shared journey we all contribute to,” Gueno Koay Gaik Kee said.
She also noted that Malaysia generates around 39,078 tonnes of solid waste daily – equivalent to about 1.17kg per person, according to Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp).
“This staggering figure underscores the importance of collective action to address waste challenges.”
Penang has made significant strides in environmental sustainability, with a recycling rate of 53%, according to the Penang2030 dashboard. Yet, participants at the event were encouraged to aim even higher.
“Each of you here plays a vital role in moving Penang closer to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” the local councillor remarked.
The MBPP aims to develop Penang as a sustainable, liveable, and environmentally-conscious city, working hand-in-hand with the community to create meaningful, lasting change.
The event exemplified this vision by rallying local residents and organisations in a shared effort to keep Penang’s landscapes, including Straits Quay, pristine and beautiful.
Participants engaged in both plogging and waste segregation activities, underscoring the impact of small, everyday actions – like picking up litter and sorting recyclables – in building environmental awareness.
“Together, through initiatives like these, we hope to inspire more people to take action and care for our shared environment,” Koay added.
As the event wrapped up, she urged attendees to sustain the momentum.
“Thank you once again to everyone here for your energy and commitment. Let’s keep up this momentum – not just today, but every day,” Koay said.
A total of 177.73kg of waste was collected during the event, including 22.5kg of recyclable materials.