Pandawara Group: Youths Will Clean the "4th

Dirtiest Beach in Indonesia", But Local Gov't Is

Offended
By : Erina Putri

The article highlights the Pandawara Group’s environmental initiative to clean up Cibutun
Loji Beach in Sukabumi district and unfolds a complex and controversial narrative. The group,
known for its environmental campaigns, boldly described the beach as "Indonesia's fourth dirtiest",
sparking a heated debate with local authorities. The government's swift response, expressing
displeasure and considering legal action, underscored the conflict between grassroots initiatives
and bureaucratic procedures, exacerbated by a lack of prior communication. The Pandawara
Group's influence is reaching new heights thanks to its massive social media following with
millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The impact of their advocacy is
further enhanced by the participation of global figures such as Nas Daily and Mr. Beast. Amid the
controversy, Sukabumi Regent Minister announced a comprehensive beach clean-up aimed at
countering the organization's ranking criteria while addressing wider challenges in waste
management. Waste management becomes a critical aspect considering the use of heavy
machinery due to burying waste and the logistical complexity of waste transportation. This article
illustrates the complexity of these challenges and highlights the need for collaboration and careful
planning when undertaking large-scale beach cleanups. The changing situation highlights the
delicate balance between environmental activity, public perception and local authority
responsibility. This article captures the dynamic interplay between competing narratives and
reveals the complexities of environmental advocacy and the balancing of public participation and
bureaucratic protocol involved as governments move to address the problem and initiate clean-up
efforts.

Mohd. Ilham Ramadhana

101323166
PE – 1C