PUTATAN: The public are urged to play a proactive role as “Rakan Lestari” in preserving cleanliness, greenery and public facilities while helping to curb vandalism for the wellbeing of the community.
Putatan District Officer Masawi Salleh said the Rakan Lestari 2026 Programme was not only aimed at beautifying playground areas, but also at creating greater awareness on the importance of environmental sustainability.
He said the initiative supports the aspirations of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing Sabah towards developing a low-carbon society through green community initiatives.
“This programme also strengthens cooperation among residents through gotong-royong activities, landscaping and recreational programmes focused on creating a clean and conducive environment,” he said when officiating the programme at the Taman Teluk Villa playground here, Wednesday.
Masawi, who is also chairman of the Putatan District Council, also reminded the public against vandalism, saying such acts not only spoil public facilities but also cause losses to authorities and residents.
“Playgrounds are important community spaces, especially for children and families. Therefore, these facilities must be maintained to ensure they remain clean, safe and comfortable,” he said.
He also encouraged residents to support the “Zero Plastic Bag” campaign by reducing the use of single-use plastics and adopting reusable bags and recycling practices.
Masawi said environmental conservation efforts require the collective commitment of government agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organisations and the community.
He hoped the programme could be continued and expanded to other residential areas to encourage more residents to embrace a cleaner and greener lifestyle.
Also present were Junainah Abbie, Taman Teluk Villa Neighbourhood Watch Committee chairman Malai Mansor Malai Kassim and Putatan District Council engineer Goh Wang Siang.
