Jakarta. State-owned bank BNI held a cleanup of Bali’s Mertasari Beach on Saturday.

As many as 200 volunteers from the community, students, environmental groups, and Sanur Kauh Village officials took part in the initiative.

The activity, titled "BERANI Bersih Pantai Mertasari," was part of the bank’s support for sustainable environmental management and coincided with the commemoration of National Waste Awareness Day (HPSN), which takes place every February 21. Sanur Kauh Village Head I Made Ada, Head of the Sekar Tanjung Waste Management Unit (TPS3R) I Wayan Merta, and the Founder of the Malu Dong Community Komang Sudiarta were among the participants.

BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo said that the cleanup also aimed to raise collective awareness of the importance of environmental protection as a foundation for economic sustainability and community well-being.

"This activity reflects a shared awareness that environmental sustainability is a crucial foundation for economic sustainability and community well-being. The challenge of waste management cannot be solved by one party but requires strong collaboration between the government, businesses, communities, and the public," Okki was quoted as saying in a press statement.

According to Okki, Bali holds a strategic role as a national and international tourism destination, hence the need to promote coastal environmental cleanliness. BNI also sees it as a long-term investment for the sustainability of tourism and the regional economy.

"Safeguarding the earth is no longer an option, but a necessity. Clean coastal areas are a crucial part of maintaining Bali's tourism image and competitiveness," Okki said.

Volunteers worked together to clean up trash along Mertasari Beach. BNI also donated a waste shredder and plastic press to the Sekar Tanjung Waste Management Site (TPS3R). This equipment is expected to increase waste processing capacity and boost the economic value of community-based waste management.

"BNI's commitment to preserving the environment is part of its implementation of good and sustainable corporate governance. The company encourages business growth to go hand in hand with social responsibility and environmental awareness," Okki said.

Through the BNI Go Green program and various other sustainability initiatives, the bank continues to encourage collaboration in waste management, environmental education, and community outreach. These efforts are expected to create a sustainable positive impact on the environment and communities, particularly in coastal areas.