DENPASAR, BALINEWSID.COM – The Bali chapter of the Ikatan Wartawan Online (IWO) organized a beach cleanup action at Mertasari Beach on Sunday (February 15, 2026), drawing around 100 participants from various community groups and cross-sector institutions.

The activity, which began at 7:00 a.m. local time, was made possible through collaboration with several institutions, including the Bali Regional Office of the National Land Agency (BPN), the Class I Immigration Office TPI Denpasar, the Special Class I Immigration Office TPI Ngurah Rai, the Denpasar Immigration Detention Center, as well as community members from Intaran Traditional Village and Sanur Kauh Village.

In addition to the beach cleanup, the committee also presented certificates of appreciation to participating institutions in recognition of their support and involvement.

Chairperson of IWO Bali Regional Board, Tri Widiyanti Prasetiyo, said the initiative stemmed from journalists’ spontaneous concern over environmental issues, particularly waste problems along Bali’s coastline.

She dismissed assumptions that the action was a response to recent criticism from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto regarding Bali’s waste management.

“This is not because the President recently highlighted the issue. As journalists, we have a responsibility not only to report on environmental problems, but also to take part in preserving the environment,” she said.

Tri expressed hope that the Mertasari Beach cleanup would not end as a ceremonial event, but instead inspire the public to start managing waste from its source.

Meanwhile, Head of the Bali Regional Office of BPN, I Made Daging, welcomed the initiative led by journalists. He emphasized that cross-sector collaboration is essential in safeguarding Bali’s environment.

“We were invited by IWO Bali, and I believe this is a very positive initiative. Since the initiators are journalists, the message spreads quickly and the public becomes aware that cross-sector collaboration in protecting Bali’s environment is crucial. Let us protect Bali,” he said.

Bendesa Adat of Intaran, I Gusti Agung Alit Kencana, added that the cleanup action also served as an educational momentum for the community on the importance of proper waste management, especially in coastal areas that serve as popular tourist destinations.

He expressed hope that the government would take a more proactive role in engaging directly with communities by providing clear socialization on waste management systems and equipment, ensuring that coastal waste issues can be addressed in a sustainable manner.

The activity reaffirmed the commitment of journalists not only as conveyors of information, but also as part of the solution in preserving the environment. RAN