SANDAKAN: This week, Karamunting assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin spearheaded a significant clean-up at Bridge 1, Kampung Pukat, where over 100 tonnes of rubbish that had built up over the years were removed.
This effort has greatly improved the area’s cleanliness and overall environment.
George encouraged local residents to value the clean-up results by keeping the area tidy and avoiding littering in the sea.
He called for community cooperation to safeguard the marine ecosystem and maintain the natural beauty of Kampung Pukat.
He pointed out that Kampung Pukat is one of Sandakan’s oldest Chinese settlements, where fishing was once the main source of income for residents.
Today, the area is famous for its seafood dishes, dried seafood, and salted fish, attracting many tourists from near and far.
However, maintaining environmental cleanliness has been a continuous struggle for the community. With the holiday season approaching, George emphasised the importance of beautifying the area as tourists will visit Kampung Pukat to enjoy seafood and shop, which is vital for the community’s image.
The clean-up operation, which covered Bridge 1 and nearby areas, utilised heavy machinery to clear the waste.
In just four days, more than 100 tonnes of rubbish were successfully removed, significantly improving cleanliness. George thanked the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) for their strong support, including sending cleaning teams and organising waste removal.
“We encourage residents and business owners to join forces in keeping Kampung Pukat clean. A tidy environment will attract more visitors and enhance the local economy and tourism,” he stated.