19 & 20 July 2025 | Kampung Tanjung Genting, Mersing
The Johor State Office of the Department of Trade Union Affairs (JHEKS), in collaboration with government agencies, trade unions, NGOs and the local community, successfully organised the 2025 Trade Union Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programme at Kampung Tanjung Genting, Mersing. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders in a collective effort to empower the community, promote environmental awareness, and strengthen the preservation of cultural heritage.
The programme began with J-Robik aerobics, plogging, and a beach clean-up, which collectively removed 343.5 kilograms of waste from the coastal area. As a symbolic commitment to environmental conservation, 165 casuarina trees and 20 beach she-oak saplings were planted along the shoreline—supporting Mersing District’s goal to promote sustainable tourism. The event was further enlivened by various community competitions such as heaviest waste collection, flower arrangement, towel decoration, and carrom tournaments, all of which encouraged active participation and fostered community spirit.
The official opening ceremony took place at Dewan Tg. Genting Chalet & Campsite, officiated by YBhg. Tuan Haji Mohd Asri bin Abdul Wahab, Director General of JHEKS Malaysia, following the welcoming speech by YBhg. Tuan Haji Jamil Hasni bin Abdullah, District Officer of Mersing. The event also featured the presentation of CSR collaboration plaques and competition prizes, adding further significance to the programme’s success.
A highlight of the programme was the evening prior, where the community gathered for a traditional feast (rewang), tahlil prayers, village-wide kenduri, and the screening of the classic local film Sri Mersing through an open-air Wayang Pacak. This special night brought together spiritual, cultural and artistic elements, reviving a sense of unity and shared heritage among the villagers.
The programme was graced by the presence of numerous representatives from key agencies, including Mr. Mohd Reydzwan bin Yong (District Forestry Officer), Mr. Nurulikhwan bin Hujan @ Tik (Mukim Tenglu Chief), Mersing District Council, SWCorp, Mr. Faridatul Jamlus bin Mohd Moktar (Mersing Enforcement Branch Manager), Mr. Najib bin Rahim (SWM Mersing Manager), Mr. Md Lazaam bin Md Nor (Village Chief of Tanjung Genting), and representatives from the NGO Global Environment Centre (GEC). Their involvement demonstrated strong multi-agency collaboration and support for sustainable development and community wellbeing.
The positive impact of the programme was evident—not only in the visible improvements to environmental cleanliness and natural beauty—but more importantly in the increased awareness among the community about environmental stewardship, cultural appreciation, and the importance of collective responsibility. The active participation from local residents fostered stronger community ties and enhanced relationships between public agencies and the people.
In his speech, JHEKS Director General YBhg. Tuan Haji Mohd Asri bin Abdul Wahab expressed his deep appreciation for the commitment of all involved. He also shared his aspiration to see such CSR programmes expanded across other districts, as platforms for nurturing civic awareness and demonstrating the broader social role of trade unions.
“Trade unions are not just a voice for workers’ rights—they are catalysts for social change and community leadership. Through initiatives like this, we build a society that is not only aware of its rights, but also committed to its responsibilities—to the environment, to culture, and to one another.”
JHEKS Johor extends its heartfelt gratitude to all partners and supporters for their unwavering commitment to making this programme a success. It is hoped that this initiative serves as a model for collaborative efforts that contribute to a more sustainable, cohesive, and culturally rich nation.
