PT Trubaindo Coal Mining and PT Bharinto Ekatama have showcased their commitment to the environment by organizing a conservation action along the banks of the Mahakam River and the Pasar Olah Bebaya in the Melak District.
Interestingly, the event was organized similar to a contest with prizes: the winning team, which managed to collect the most trash, would receive a cash prize.
A cash prize of IDR 3 million was set aside for the first-place winner, while IDR 2 million, IDR 2.5 million, IDR 2 million, and IDR 1 million were awarded to the second, third, fourth, and fifth place respectively.
This river-cleaning activity took place on August 2nd in collaboration with the Kutai Barat Environmental Service, the Pemuda Pancasila community organization, the TCM-BEK Contractor Forum, students, and the residents of Melak Ilir village.
A total of 800 participants were divided into 20 groups to tackle the litter scattered along a 2-kilometer stretch of the river, starting from Pasar Olah Bebaya and ending at the Ali Tulur Jejangkat Bridge in Melak Ilir.
Using available equipment, the activists separated organic and non-organic waste, then collected it in designated containers. Their actions inspired nearby residents, encouraging them to join in the effort.
The committee educated the local community on the importance of preserving the environment, disposing of trash properly, and managing household waste correctly through billboards and calendars handed out to the residents.
"We strongly hope that the community becomes aware of not carelessly discarding trash into the river," said Administration Mine Manager of TCM-BEK, Achmad Mamduh.
He added that piles of neglected trash can lead to river siltation, damage the river's ecosystem, and disrupt comfort. "Especially now during the dry season, river water levels are decreasing, making it easier for trash to accumulate," he explained.
The activity, themed "My River Clean, My River Beautiful," and with the tagline SungaiMahakamBukanTempatSampah (Mahakam River is Not a Dumping Site), received support from the Kutai Barat District Government. "We are grateful to PT TCM – PT BEK for their ongoing support and involvement in promoting development," said the Secretary of the Kutai Barat District, Yacob Tulur. "We hope they continue to be the government's work partner."
