PRESS RELEASE: “You
Cannot Sell Paradise with Polluted Waters” — Junz Wong says Stop
Knee-Jerk Fixes, Demand Real Solutions
KOTA
KINABALU, 13 April 2026: Parti Warisan Vice President Junz Wong has
called out the persistent floating trash problem in Sabah’s key
tourism areas, describing it as a serious governance failure that is
damaging the state’s global image.
Referring
to a recent Bernama report highlighting pollution in Semporna waters,
Wong said the issue is not new — and not limited to one location.
“This
problem has been reported repeatedly, yet it remains unresolved. It
reflects a deeper failure in governance and enforcement,” he said.
From
Semporna to Kota Kinabalu - A Widening Problem
The
Tanjung Aru Assemblyman noted that similar cleanliness issues are
visible in parts of Kota Kinabalu, particularly along the city
waterfront.
“From
Semporna to Kota Kinabalu, the signs are clear — our tourism
environment is being neglected,” he said.
Wong
added that the situation has become increasingly embarrassing on the
international stage.
“It
is deeply embarrassing when friends and relatives overseas send me
videos taken by foreign tourists, showing floating trash in our
tourism hotspots - from Semporna to the Kota Kinabalu waterfront.
This is the image of Sabah that is being projected to the world,”
he said.
Cleanliness
Is the Foundation of Tourism
Wong
stressed that basic cleanliness is not optional, but fundamental to
sustaining a credible tourism industry.
“You
cannot promote Sabah as a world-class destination while failing to
manage basic waste and cleanliness. You cannot sell paradise when the
waters are filled with trash,” he said.
Questions
Over Accountability
Wong
questioned why local authorities have failed to act decisively
despite longstanding public complaints and media exposure.
“These
problems have been highlighted time and again. Why are they still
happening? Where is the accountability?” he asked.
He
warned that continued inaction risks eroding public confidence and
undermining Sabah’s tourism brand.
A
Pattern of Inaction
Wong
said the issue reflects a broader pattern:
*
Problems identified
*
Reports published
*
Task forces formed
*
But little to no resolution on the ground
“From
illegal operators to floating trash, the issue is the same - failure
to act,” he said.
Call
for Immediate Clean-Up and Enforcement
Wong
urged the State Government and local authorities to take urgent
steps, including:
*
Immediate clean-up operations in affected areas
*
Strict enforcement of waste management regulations
*
Clear accountability for local councils
*
Addressing waste at the source through sustainable long-term
solutions
Protect
Sabah’s Image and Future
“This
is not just an environmental issue — it is about Sabah’s
reputation, our tourism industry, and our future,” Wong said.
“If
we do not fix the basics, no amount of promotion can save Sabah’s
tourism.”
END
Press
Statement Released by:
YB
Datuk Junz Wong
Party
Warisan Vice President cum N22 Tanjung Aru Assemblyman
Contact:
017-8188801
