Working for a cleaner Thaipusam

IN the five years since the “Clean Thaipusam” initiative started, there has been a positive shift in attitudes in waste management, says the programme’s organiser.

Film director JK Wicky said he had seen significant improvement among the temple management of Batu Caves and visitors since first spearheading a volunteer drive to clean up the area during Thaipusam in 2019.

The group has expanded its clean-up efforts to Perak, Penang and Kedah since then.

“We have noticed a difference in how temple management handles waste during big events.

“As our volunteers are on the ground during the festival, we were able to give some suggestions which were incorporated into their planning.

“Some added more bins, increased their frequency in cleaning temple grounds during the festival and even offered our volunteers use of some of their facilities,” he told StarMetro.

Wicky said the aim of the campaign was to raise awareness about celebrating Thaipusam in an eco-conscious manner and prioritising cleanliness.

Volunteers clearing and picking up rubbish during Thaipusam last year. — Photos courtesy of Clean Thaipusam

“Our aim isn’t to pick up rubbish, but to encourage a mindset shift.

“We want to remind individuals running food stalls, annathaanam (giving food) or thaneer panthal (drinks stalls), during the festival that they significantly contribute to plastic waste on the grounds.

“Even devotees who bring items like plastic milk bottles, incense sticks and packed fruits are contributing to the waste.

“There are more sustainable options for many of the containers and items used during the festival,” he explained in urging those who could afford it to choose alternatives.

This will be the fourth year in which volunteers will help clean up around Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves as well as Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple in Ipoh, Perak; Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Temple in George Town, Penang; and Sri Subramaniya Swami Devasthanam Temple in Sungai Petani, Kedah.

For this year’s Thaipusam on Thursday, Wicky said that about 500 volunteers would be stationed at the four locations.

The volunteers will work in shifts throughout Feb 24 and 25 in Batu Caves, and on Feb 25 in the other locations.

Besides picking up and clearing rubbish, since last year volunteers have also started segregating fruits like bananas, apples and oranges that are still in good condition.

Wicky said volunteers took the fruits to the jungles for the consumption of wild animals.

StarMetro had previously reported that Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) anticipated around 400 tonnes of waste would be generated over the festival.

It is allocating RM160,000 to manage waste outside the temple compound in Batu Caves.

Workers hired by the local council will work in shifts, based on a 24-hour schedule, from now until Feb 4.