BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Over 140 volunteers joined hands for a cleaning campaign in Kampong Ayer, collecting more than 1.3 tonnes of trash in just a few hours.

Volunteers cleared waste and debris from several locations in the water village – Kampung Sungai Siamas, Kampung Sungai Kebun, Pulau Berambang, and surrounding river areas.

The cleanup was organised by the EU-Brunei Partnership Facility and Green Brunei, as part of a series of regional events to mark EU-ASEAN Green Diplomacy Week.

Volunteers scoop trash from the Brunei River. Photo: Courtesy of Green Brunei

The EU Green Diplomacy Week is one of the European Union’s global campaigns to promote cooperation and inspire meaningful action on climate change. In conjunction with the campaign, activities and events are organised around the world to showcase successful sustainability initiatives.

“The European Union is committed to supporting our partners in their respective green transitions, including ASEAN member states,” said Sujiro Seam, the EU Ambassador to ASEAN.

“This event shows our commitment to continue working together with ASEAN towards a greener, sustainable and inclusive future. It is an opportunity to encourage and motivate individuals, communities and organisations to take stronger actions – to protect, preserve and restore our environment, for now and for future generations.”

More than 1.3 tonnes of rubbish were collected from Kg Ayer in a few short hours. Photo: Courtesy of Green Brunei

Jihan Abdul Rahman, chargé d’Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Brunei Darussalam to ASEAN, added that the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change in Brunei will facilitate regional climate change cooperation across Southeast Asia.

“Over the years, ASEAN has demonstrated commitment to addressing climate change, including through multi-sectoral dialogue and relevant activities involving key partners across various sectors.”

“By emphasising climate action, such as sustainable transport, eliminating pollution, and ensuring a just transition for all, ASEAN, in collaboration with our valuable partners including the EU, can build a more resilient region better prepared to withstand the impacts of climate change,” she said.

Brunei currently serves as the country coordinator for ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations.

Radomir Jansky, chargé d’affaires of the Delegation of the European Union to ASEAN, also commended the volunteers’ efforts during the river cleanup: “The work you have done here at Kampong Ayer contributes not only to a healthier environment, but also to the boarder goals of EU Green Diplomacy Week.”