KOTA KINABALU: A recent surge in marine debris, particularly in the waterfront areas of Kota Kinabalu, including Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal and Kota Kinabalu Central Market, has prompted the Kota Kinabalu City Hall to undertake immediate cleanup operations, it said in a Facebook post on April 3.
The increase in waste, attributed to the shift in sea wind patterns in March, has significantly affected the city's coastal and marine environments. The city council's Solid Waste Management Department (JPSP) responded swiftly, deploying boats and trash skimmers to collect the floating debris, successfully gathering approximately 7.5 tonnes of waste during the cleanup sessions, with a notable concentration at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
Observations by the city council have indicated that the bulk of the marine and coastal litter originates from overwater settlements and riverine communities surrounding the city. As a temporary measure, there are now plans to install trash traps in critical areas such as Kampung Numbak and Saga squatter settlements, while also identifying suitable vessels for ongoing cleaning operations.
Ongoing monitoring and cleanup efforts are being conducted along riverbanks and coastal areas in Kota Kinabalu by the Marine and River Cleaning Unit. These activities, supported by contracted concession companies, are extended to key locations such as the Sembulan river mouth, Anjung Senja coastline, trash traps near the IMAGO shopping centre, Sabah Parks jetty, Likas Bay, and other affected areas, following a predefined cleaning schedule.
DBKK urges the public to practise responsible waste disposal and refrain from littering in rivers, seas, and coastal areas to prevent environmental pollution. The rising issue of marine and coastal pollution demands a collaborative approach, involving concerted efforts from various action agencies and heightened public awareness.
Effective action plans are being developed to address the critical issue of improper waste disposal by the public, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty and cleanliness of Kota Kinabalu's waterfronts.