![More than 8,500 participants took part in the nationwide “Go Green, Go Plogging” event across 52 locations. [Photo by Wong Poh Fatt]](/images/Articles/RW/2025/KL20250629a_hbf01_354.jpg "More than 8,500 participants took part in the nationwide “Go Green, Go Plogging” event across 52 locations. [Photo by Wong Poh Fatt]")
Across Malaysia, thousands joined “Go Green, Go Plogging”, picking up litter as they jog, turning small steps into a movement of care. Marking 30 years of Tzu Chi KL & Selangor’s environmental mission, the event reminded all that protecting our planet begins with every mindful choice.
To mark three decades of environmental protection efforts by Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, more than 8,500 participants came together on June 29, 2025, for “Go Green, Go Plogging”, a nationwide green initiative.
Held simultaneously at 52 locations across Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Sabah, and Sarawak, the event brought together people of all ages and backgrounds for a shared purpose: to jog while picking up litter.
◎ A movement of shared purpose
The main gathering at the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong drew a vibrant crowd—families, students, community groups, and corporate representatives alike—united by a common aspiration to protect the environment and cultivate sustainable habits.
“This event is even more special as it is held in conjunction with Tzu Chi’s 30 years of environmental protection efforts in Malaysia,” said Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee, Deputy CEO of Tzu Chi KL & Selangor. “For three decades, we have walked this green path together with our communities—educating, advocating, and acting to safeguard the Earth. Today, we take another meaningful step on that journey.”
The corporate sector also supported the movement, including Berjaya Group, Top Glove, Public Bank, Sunway Group, Nirvana, Radium Berhad, Southern Score Builders Berhad, Platinum Victory, and Techsaltants, whilst media partner, 988 Radio, helped amplify the campaign’s message, calling on even more people to participate.
Together, the participants nationwide collected 3,937 kilogrammes of rubbish and 3,646 kilogrammes of recyclables in just two hours, a powerful demonstration of collective action for the Earth.
◎ A call for collective responsibility
Among the participants were people’s representatives and government officials who underscored the importance of shared environmental responsibility.
“We have only one Earth,” said Y.B. Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor. “Everyone must work together to love and protect it. Don’t litter.”
Sharing a similar concern, Y.B. Wong Siew Ki, Selangor State Assembly Member, reflected, “The things we ‘want’ often burden the Earth. This planet is our home. Cultivating a (green lifestyle) may seem inconvenient at first, but if we can be just a little more patient for the sake of our Earth, we will all live longer lives.”
Lee Jen Uyin, Subang Jaya City Councillor, noted the significant costs associated with poor waste management: “About one-third of the City Council’s annual revenue goes towards cleaning. We hope this won’t have to continue. It would be far better if the taxpayers’ money we collect could serve people in other meaningful ways.”
For Saipul Anuar, a residents’ association committee member, the event was also a symbol of unity. “Today’s programme is a collective effort by all,” he said. “Whether Chinese, Indian, or Malay, everyone has come together to clean our community and promote the importance of recycling within society.”
◎ From awareness to action
In line with Goal 13 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals – Climate Action, the plogging event aimed to raise awareness and inspire immediate, practical steps towards a greener future.
It demonstrated that environmental protection need not rely on grand gestures. Often, it begins with something simple, such as picking up litter during a morning walk, using fewer disposable items, or reminding one another to keep public spaces clean.
Participant Yik Sok Guan shared, “We don’t need to be perfectly prepared to start recycling. Same with going vegetarian; even one meatless meal helps. It is not about perfection, but taking the first step.”
For Tan Ren Fong, the experience was refreshing. “While we exercise, we can also help the planet. I think plogging is a fresh and trendy concept. More people should learn about it and get involved.”
Volunteer Chin Yee Hin shared a simple yet motivating thought: “If each person collects just small bits of paper or plastic at home, every household would fill at least a small bag. When many families and individuals do the same, it would add up to a significant amount and provide great protection for our environment.”
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The impact of “Go Green, Go Plogging” lies not only in the tonnes of waste collected but in the spirit it awakened – the recognition that every effort, no matter how small, matters.
In just two hours, participants from all walks of life proved that environmental care can be woven seamlessly into daily routines. Through simple, consistent actions, communities can transform habits, nurture compassion for nature, and protect the only home humanity shares.
