BY NUR FARIHAN RAZALI
While most residents are still asleep, a cleaning worker has already begun his daily routine to ensure the town of Mukah remains clean and comfortable for the community.
For Mohamad Azrozain Abdul Latip, 43, collecting rubbish is not merely a job but a responsibility to society.
Azrozain has been working as a waste collector in the Balingian Sub-district since November 2018.
“Over the years, I have gone through many experiences, from handling piles of rubbish to interacting with members of the public who use the facilities here.
“Every day I start work as early as 6 a.m. because the surroundings are still calm at that hour, making it easier to collect and sweep rubbish.
“That time is the most suitable for me to sweep the corridors and walkways around the New Market and Old Market areas here,” he said when met by Suara Sarawak.
After sweeping, Azrozain will walk around the area to collect any rubbish that may have been left behind.
He said the job requires patience and attention to detail, as rubbish can often be found in various corners, including unexpected places.
Sharing his daily routine, Azrozain said his morning duties usually end around 11 a.m., before he resumes work in the afternoon from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.
“Although the job can be challenging, I see the public’s attitude towards cleanliness as fairly positive.
“In my view, Alhamdulillah, about 80 per cent of people take good care of cleanliness.
“However, there are still around 20 per cent who are less aware of the importance of maintaining cleanliness. Some still throw rubbish carelessly, especially in parking areas,” he explained.
Throughout his duties, Azrozain does not hesitate to advise individuals who litter.
He said such reminders are given politely to ensure the surroundings remain clean, although some people may feel offended when corrected.
“However, most people eventually understand and show greater respect towards the work carried out by cleaning staff,” he said.
Azrozain believes cleanliness is a shared responsibility.
“If everyone plays their part, a clean environment can be maintained for the benefit of all.
“When a place is clean and well maintained, it brings a sense of calm to those who see it. A neat and orderly environment also provides comfort for the public,” he stressed.
He added that when an area is filled with rubbish, it becomes dirty and disorganised.
This not only spoils the view but can also leave a negative impression on visitors from outside the area.
Azrozain believes cleanliness can also influence tourist arrivals, as a clean and well-maintained environment is more likely to attract visitors.
At the same time, he hopes all parties, including community leaders, will set a good example in cultivating a culture of cleanliness.
“Every leader must show good behaviour to the community, including practising the habit of not littering in public places.
“This is because maintaining cleanliness cannot be done by one party alone. It requires cooperation from everyone to ensure the environment remains clean and comfortable.”
After years of working closely with waste collection, Azrozain said the one thing he hopes for most is greater public awareness.
“If everyone takes responsibility for keeping the environment clean, this job will certainly become much easier,” he said.
