Kuala Lumpur faces a significant waste management challenge, collecting over 2,000 tonnes of waste daily. This comes at an annual cost of RM220 million, managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). Recognizing the growing need for sustainable practices, DBKL has taken serious steps to align with long-term urban cleanliness and liveability goals.
One of DBKL’s notable initiatives is the “Zero Waste Campaign: Jom Bersih Bukit Bintang,” conducted by the LA21KL Bukit Bintang Cleanliness Committee. This program reflects DBKL’s commitment to making Kuala Lumpur a clean and livable city by involving the community in practical, impactful actions.
The Bukit Bintang area was selected as the campaign site due to its prominence as a commercial and tourist hub. The event brought together local communities, volunteers, and strategic partners to demonstrate their shared responsibility in keeping public spaces clean.
Persatuan Khuddam Malaysia (KHUDDAM), serving as a strategic partner to DBKL, was honoured to contribute to this campaign. As a youth-based organization driven by service and civic responsibility, KHUDDAM saw this program as an important opportunity to support city-wide transformation and promote environmental awareness among youth.
KHUDDAM volunteers actively participated in collecting rubbish and raising public awareness during the campaign. Their contribution was recognized by DBKL, highlighting the importance of community involvement and appreciation. Such campaigns also cultivate a spirit of unity and civic pride.
At the heart of KHUDDAM’s participation is the desire to instil a stronger sense of belonging among youth. When young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their environment, they develop a greater appreciation for their city and community. This sense of ownership is key to fostering civic-minded individuals.
Beyond cleanliness, initiatives like this empower youth by providing real-life experiences that build leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility. These programs help develop young people who are ready to take action and contribute meaningfully to society.
KHUDDAM’s involvement also reflects the power of partnerships. While DBKL and the LA21KL Committee provide the platform, it is the collaboration with citizens and organizations that drives change. Youth groups like KHUDDAM play a crucial role by offering both manpower and moral support to public efforts.
Maintaining cleanliness impacts not just aesthetics, but also public health, environmental sustainability, and overall urban quality of life. To make Kuala Lumpur both liveable and loveable, every stakeholder must play a role—government, NGOs, and the citizens themselves.
Persatuan Khuddam Malaysia remains committed to supporting DBKL’s vision. Beyond clean-up efforts, the organization aims to contribute to a broader culture of sustainability and civic participation. KHUDDAM hopes that this program will serve as a catalyst for greater youth involvement across various initiatives.
Looking ahead, KHUDDAM welcomes collaborations with government agencies, NGOs, and private entities to empower youth through environmental education, civic engagement, and leadership development programs. These efforts will equip the younger generation to become proactive contributors to nation-building.
Youth are not just future leaders—they are today’s changemakers. Engaging them in purposeful programs lays the foundation for a resilient and united city. KHUDDAM stands ready to work with all parties to build a better Kuala Lumpur—one that is truly liveable and loveable for all.
Written by:
Amiruddin Ahmad bin Abdul Jalil
General Secretary of Persatuan Khuddam Malaysia