A dedicated group of volunteers, made up of sponsors, partners and members of the public, spent their Sunday making a difference by participating in the Trash Free Hill 2025 campaign, organised by the Penang Hill Corporation.

Leading the charge was State Executive Councillor for Housing and Environment, YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo A/L Somu, joined by YB Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Member of Parliament for Bukit Bendera.

More than 600 passionate participants came together to remove over 170 kg of waste from seven hiking routes across Penang Hill, showcasing the power of community-driven environmental action.

In his speech, Sundarajoo expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the sixth edition of Trash Free Hill (TFH2025): 

“Today, we gather not just for a clean-up, but for a cause—one that reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect Penang Hill. It is one of the state’s most treasured natural icons, a proud part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve network, and the green lung of Penang Island.”

Since its inception seven years ago, Trash Free Hill has focused on preserving the natural beauty of Penang Hill through consistent, collaborative efforts. Sundarajoo emphasized the environmental impact of litter, stating that: 

“The trash we see isn’t just unsightly. It’s harmful. It damages our ecosystem, endangers wildlife, and degrades the experience for everyone.”

Among the collected waste included plastic bottles and bags, discarded clothing, metal, glass, light bulbs, and other items that should never end up on forest trails.

He also underscored the importance of sustained efforts: 

“Preserving Penang Hill isn’t the job of one person, one agency, or a one-day initiative. It is a continuous, collective effort.”

Sundarajoo also praised the event as a meaningful opportunity for connection and community building: 

“Whether you’re here with your family, friends, or colleagues, this experience fosters connection, purpose, and pride. Together, we are creating something meaningful.”

The event’s success was made possible by the strong support of sponsors and partners, including: Decathlon Malaysia, The Habitat Group, Inari Amertron Berhad, Resonac Material Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Kao Penang Group, Texchem Resources Bhd, Printhero Sdn Bhd, A&W (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Hickory on Penang Hill, Marrybrown Sdn Bhd, David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Kumpulan Barkath, Lean Lee Trading Company Sdn Bhd, and Safetyware Sdn Bhd.