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