PENANG Hill - a top tourism landmark, has recorded a decreasing amount of garbage along the hiking trails due to the Trash Free Hill (TFH) volunteer programme, which was launched seven years ago.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu said the programme sends a strong message about caring for the top tourist attraction by empowering the community to help.
Hikers and recreational goers are encouraged to pick up trash while they stroll through hiking paths under the one - day TFH programme.
"The hill is sending a message of making Penang cleaner, greener and safer," said Sundarajoo after launching the seventh edition of the TFH at the lower hill station.
"The programme team deserves applause for their proactive efforts to keep the hill free of trash. Through this initiative, we showed that while we hike, we also help make the hill cleaner, greener and safer for other hikers."
Activities such as plogging, a form of physical exercise, can help individuals destress, especially as mental health issues are a growing concern, he added.
Apart from that, as part of the state’s ongoing campaign to eliminate single - use plastic, Sundarajoo revealed that a new non - plastic material resembling plastic is planned for introduction to hawkers.
“Penangites are already environmentally conscious, so spreading awareness of green initiatives is enough to get them on board,” he added.
According to Penang Hill Corporation (PHC), more than 170 kg of waste was collected last year from seven hiking routes on the famed hill through TFH, lower than the over 200 kg recorded in 2024.
TFH 2026 on June 21, from 7 am until noon, aims to attract around 1,000 participants, each of whom will receive a participation kit, an e-certificate, and an ‘ice-kacang’ treat sponsored by PHC.
Participants will receive gloves, garbage bags, and plogging supplies, and may bring additional items.
They are encouraged to stay updated on the programme via PHC’s official social media platforms.
PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng shared that the organisation has received Green Building Index (GBI) certification for two of its buildings, making them the first hilltop buildings to achieve this. - March 6, 2026.
