CLEANLINESS requires shared responsibility, does not rely solely on the authorities, and must become part of our daily culture, says Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Speaking at the launch of the ‘Clean Cities, Clean Nation’ campaign recently, Rajendran said the initiative reflects Penang’s commitment to lead in building a cleaner, healthier, and more responsible nation, rather than waiting for direction.
“This initiative is a continuation of our collective commitment , to the environment, to civic values, and to sustainable urban living.
“It builds upon the momentum of past efforts, including World Cleanup Day, which was championed by MBPP in 2023.
“It serves as a powerful example of what happens when policy aligns with people, and when enforcement is complemented by education.
“But we know that cleanliness cannot be sustained by the council alone. It demands shared ownership,” he added.
It is learned that the campaign is a joint collaboration between MBPP and Yayasan Modal Insan Harta, under the leadership of its chairman, Datuk Dr Radzali Hassan.
Rajendran also shared that while Penang is celebrated for its food, culture, and heritage, it should also be known for its discipline, civic pride, and environmental responsibility.
“This initiative is about transforming mindsets , ensuring that our efforts go beyond one day, one campaign, or one department. Our ambitions must not be seasonal, but structural and sustained,” he said.
Rajendran said, the Yayasan Modal Insan Harta’s three-year support focuses on schools and civic education to build awareness and future leaders, showing that values matter as much as infrastructure.
“Their three-year commitment, particularly focused on schools, is a powerful investment in the next generation.
“Through classroom lessons, student ambassadorships, cleanup drives, and civic workshops, we are not just cultivating awareness, we are nurturing leadership.
“MBPP will remain fully committed and we will continue to enforce where needed, educate where possible and engage at every level.
“Our efforts from waste separation initiatives and smart bin systems to illegal dumping enforcement and street cleanliness audits will continue with renewed focus and commitment,” he added.
Meanwhile, Radzali said that a clean city reflects a society that respects itself, while a dirty one, no matter how developed, shows a lack of discipline, civic awareness, and shared responsibility.
He said Penang was chosen as the launch site for the campaign not just because it is close to the foundation’s operations, but because it represents what they hope to see across Malaysia, strong leadership, responsive governance, and a caring community.
“I would like to thank mayor Datuk Rajendran for not only supporting this campaign but also showing how a local council can lead by example when it comes to sustainability.
“Through Yayasan Modal Insan Harta, we are committing to a three year programme with schools, teachers, and students across Penang.
“By empowering students, we hope to influence not only them, but also their families and communities,” said Radzali.
Radzali also highlighted that this is not a one time CSR event, but a long term programme to change behaviour.In the first phase, they will work with over 20 schools, introducing environmental topics in class, organising clean up days, appointing student ambassadors, and holding civic awareness workshops.
The campaign aims to involve citizens, schools, local councils, NGOs, and corporate partners across the country. It also focuses on cleaning and restoring public spaces like streets, rivers, parks, and neighbourhoods.
A mini clean-up was held on July 20 at the Esplanade in Penang. It was organised by Yayasan Modal Insan Harta together with the MBPP.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat