Dr. Valarmathy Vaiyavari, a 41-year-old ophthalmologist at Hospital Sg Buloh, founded Beach Cleanup in February 2018 after her hobbies in hiking and wildlife photography led her to realise how much litter was present in her frequented nature spots. This motivated her first cleanup at Templers Park and a full-blown community initiative that is facilitated through social media.
Although BCU is not a registered NGO, Dr. Valarmathy notes that this works to their advantage as it relieves the financial and administrative burden, and makes it easier for volunteers to participate without complications. With the goal of raising awareness on pollution and providing a platform to engage in regular cleanups, Dr. Valarmathy leads hundreds of volunteers in organising monthly trash collection events, typically collecting around 200 to 300 kg of waste each time.
BCU has come a long way since Dr. Valarmathy’s first cleanup, having grown out of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Today, they operate in Kedah, Penang, Butterworth, and Sabah, with each chapter managed by trusted friends: Alfred, Chloe, Brenda, Chui Fun in KL & Selangor; Kim Yip in Kedah; Alexis in Penang; Mullai in Butterworth. BCU’s collaborative spirit also extends to other changemaking communities – universities and schools, local eco-friendly entrepreneurs and wildlife conservation groups. By engaging with and featuring each partners’ works within their initiatives, BCU has managed to unite a formidable body of changemakers.
Outside of BCU, Dr. Valarmathy also volunteers with Kechara Soup Kitchen, providing free medical services on Saturday evenings, and works closely with wildlife NGOs. She serves as an Advisor for the Gibbon Conservation Society and as Treasurer for Hak Asasi Hidupan Liar Malaysia (HIDUP).
Making an impact requires more than just good intentions; it demands action and awareness. It thrives on teamwork and only comes into existence through deliberate efforts.