Clean Up in Pantai Tanjung Piai @ Pantai Tanjung Piai
The volunteers’ trip to Pantai Tanjung Piai began with great anticipation but quickly took an unexpected turn as they encountered unforeseen road conditions. As they approached the site, the road abruptly transformed into a construction zone, resembling more of a sandy trail filled with numerous potholes than an actual road. Their driver grew increasingly concerned about potential damage to the car, especially as we could hear the underside scraping against the uneven ground. Multiple times, the team questioned whether they had veered off course.
Their hopes lifted momentarily when they stumbled upon a resort, thinking they had finally reached their destination. However, relief turned to disappointment when the kind lady, or "makcik," running the resort informed that they were at Pantai Acheh, not Pantai Tanjung Piai. Despite her directions, their drivers were hesitant to risk getting lost again. Understanding thier predicament, the makcik generously allowed the team to clean Pantai Acheh, reassuring them that it was listed in the ICC document and thus, a valid location for their efforts.
Upon reaching the beach, they were dismayed to find it heavily littered with plastic bottles and styrofoam debris. Determined to make a difference, their cleanup efforts were cut short as they ran out of bags, leaving no choice but to transport the collected waste using their own transportation. The drivers, though concerned, consented to this plan, understanding the importance of proper disposal.
With no proper waste management system at Pantai Acheh and the makcik resorting to open burning, which clashed with environmental ideals, the team decided to dispose of the trash at Laguna Park. This decision, however, led them on another unintended adventure as they got lost once more. Despite the detours and challenges, the team made it back safely as they reflected on the day's unexpected twists and the critical importance of proper waste management.
Their journey to Pantai Tanjung Piai may not have gone as planned, but it underscored the resilience and adaptability required in environmental efforts. The experience at Pantai Acheh highlighted the pervasive issue of plastic pollution and the need for better infrastructure to manage waste effectively. Through the team’s collective efforts, albeit at a different beach, they contributed to the global initiative to keep our beaches clean and left with valuable lessons for future cleanups.
