Kota Kinabalu strengthens community-driven sustainability with KK Cleanup Day 15.0

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 14): Kota Kinabalu is strengthening its reputation as a smart, sustainable city with the launch of KK Cleanup Day 15.0 and expanded recycling initiatives, held alongside the city’s 26th anniversary celebrations.

Now in its 15th edition since 2022, the programme has evolved from a simple cleanup activity into a structured, citywide movement promoting responsible waste management, environmental stewardship, and community ownership.

Officiating the event, Kota Kinabalu Mayor Dato Sri Dr Sabin Samitah said the initiative reflects DBKK’s long-term vision of building a smart city grounded not just in technology, but in sustainability, efficient systems, and community participation.

“Cleanliness is not a one day activity. It is a culture that must be practised consistently by every level of society,” he said.

Dr Sabin added that expanding recycling, composting, and digital waste services signals a shift toward a circular economy model, where waste is recovered rather than merely disposed of, and planning is proactive rather than reactive.

“Sustainable change does not begin in the office. It begins in our homes, our villages and our neighbourhoods. When the community is involved, the impact becomes lasting,” he said, urging participation in initiatives like the ‘Kampungku Bersih’ challenge.

The programme has so far engaged more than 20,000 participants, including government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners, and local communities, highlighting collective commitment to keeping the city clean and resilient.

Dr Sabin said that by integrating public participation with strategic planning, Kota Kinabalu is not just improving cleanliness but also enhancing public health, protecting the environment, and strengthening the city’s long-term competitiveness.