A DOWNWARD trend in the amount of trash collected at the Trash Free Hill (TFH) programme over the years demonstrates the initiative’s success in raising public awareness, says State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Sundarajoo added that the programme also sends a strong message about caring for the hill, making it cleaner, greener and safer.
“The Trash Free Hill Programme team deserves applause for their proactive efforts to keep the hill free of trash.
“Through this programme, we show that while we hike, we also help make the hill cleaner, greener and safer for other hikers.
“Activities such as plogging, a form of physical exercise, can help individuals destress, especially as mental health issues are a growing concern today,” he said during a press conference held at Penang Hill Lower Station today.
Apart from that, as part of the state government’s ongoing campaign to eliminate single-use plastic, Sundarajoo revealed that a new non-plastic material resembling plastic is planned for introduction to hawkers.
“Penangites are already environmentally conscious, so spreading awareness of green initiatives is enough to get them on board,” he added.
The Trash Free Hill (TFH) programme returns this year for its seventh edition and is scheduled for June 21, from 7am to 12pm (All participants must check-in 30 minutes before the flag-off time). It is organised by the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC).
Registration for the programme begins today on PHC’s official website and is free ( https://corporate.penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/ ). It will remain open until March 8.
According to PHC’s press release, more than 170 kg of waste was collected last year from seven hiking routes on Penang Hill, lower than the over 200 kg recorded in 2024.
TFH 2026 aims to attract around 1,000 participants, each of whom will receive a participation kit, an e-certificate, and an ‘ice-kacang’ treat sponsored by PHC.
Participants will receive gloves, garbage bags, and plogging supplies, and may bring additional items. They are encouraged to stay updated on the programme via PHC’s official social media platforms.
Meanwhile, PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng shared that the organisation has received Green Building Index (GBI) certification for two of its buildings, making them the first hilltop buildings to achieve this.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan