Volunteers pick up litter during the plogging session along the TTM Bridge.
BINTULU (Aug 8): The Bintulu Marathon 2025 drew over 8,000 participants last weekend, with runners successfully crossing the finish line on a route that featured the iconic yet challenging Tun Taib Mahmud (TTM) Bridge as its highlight.
While the event was lauded for its excellent turnout and smooth execution, it was marred by a disappointing aftermath: litter scattered along the roadside and bridge, particularly used energy gel packets and disposable cups.
Despite waste bins being provided at every water station, some participants failed to dispose of their trash responsibly.
The Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) cleaning team was commended for its swift and efficient efforts in clearing the rubbish. Nevertheless, the situation highlighted concerns about waste management and participant responsibility.
While events like marathons promote a healthy lifestyle, they also underscore the importance of adopting a responsible mindset—one that includes proper waste disposal and respect for the environment.
In a commendable act of environmental stewardship, four local runners turned volunteers took it upon themselves to clean the route through a ‘plogging’ session, a combination of jogging while picking up litter.
Led by marathon pacer Felix Entri, the team also included Franklin Tutong, Brian Kee, and Morrison Alin.
Felix recounted running from the TTM Bridge to the Jepak roundabout and noticing many used power gel wrappers from various brands littered along the route.
Disturbed by the sight, he brought along his fellow runners to join him in a plogging run.
They began their cleanup at 6pm, covering an 8-kilometre round trip from the TTM Bridge to the new Jepak roundabout, collecting pieces of trash left behind by other runners.
“We hope the public can be more responsible, especially those who hang out or exercise along these roads. Throwing rubbish anywhere is not just unpleasant, it damages our environment,” said Morrison.
He also urged the BDA to consider placing more rubbish bins along the TTM Bridge and surrounding areas to help facilitate proper trash disposal.
Morrison emphasised that while organisers typically provide bins at water stations, the ultimate responsibility lies with the individual.
“If you’re not near a bin, hold onto your trash until you find one. Some runners even carry their used gel wrappers all the way to the finish line, and that’s the kind of discipline we need,” he said.
He believes this simple act goes a long way in maintaining public hygiene and preserving the cleanliness of running routes.
“I’ve joined several running events at various locations, and I’ve noticed many runners tend to ignore proper waste disposal. Some simply throw rubbish anywhere, although many do follow the rules,” he added.
He expressed hope that more participants would take accountability and become advocates for cleaner, safer, and more sustainable sporting events.