MIRI: The Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) is once again mobilising the community to protect one of the city’s best-loved stretches of coastline.
Its annual ‘Sayangi Pantai, Sayangi Miri’ (Love the Beach, Love Miri) Beach Cleaning 2.0 will take place at Luak Esplanade on October 12, running from 6:15 am to 10:00 am.
The event has secured strong backing from Miri Mayor, Adam Yii Siew Sang, who emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in keeping the city clean.
“Maintaining cleanliness cannot fall solely on the local council. While the Miri City Council has the mandate to coordinate, community support is crucial.
“Initiatives like this help to beautify our surroundings and raise public awareness of why caring for our environment matters,” he said.
The mayor confirmed that the council will provide logistical support, including coordination and facilities, to ensure the clean-up runs smoothly.
NSJA’s President, Chai Chon Chin, said the project reflects the association’s commitment to environmental stewardship as well as civic pride.
“Our beaches are often exposed to tidal movements and heavy surf, which wash up driftwood, plastic and other debris.
“By bringing together volunteers and stakeholders, we want to strengthen community involvement in caring for the city’s natural assets,” he explained.
Organising chair, Andy Jong Wan Joon, said the initiative is expected to draw more than 100 participants this year.
He added that the programme also forms part of NSJA’s golden jubilee celebrations and coincides with the 20th anniversary of Miri’s elevation to city status.
Registered teams will receive commemorative T-shirts and certificates of participation, while organisers will supply gloves, bin bags and refreshments. The deadline for registration is September 22.
“This is more than just a clean-up. It is about creating a sense of shared responsibility for our coastline and ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy it,” said Jong.
Members of the public interested in taking part may contact Andy Jong (014-5902562) or Arles Huang (019-8857258).
