Head of the Environmental and Waste Management Agency (LHP), Apries Gasperzs, said the boats operate daily from 8 a.m. to noon local time to collect floating debris.
“These four boats have long been part of our daily cleanup program. Every morning we send them out to clear the bay,” Apries said on Thursday.
He acknowledged, however, that the use of fast boats remains a limited and conventional method.
“Speed boats cannot cover the entire area or handle large waste volumes. A cleaning ship will be much more effective,” he said.
Ambon is preparing a waste dredging vessel in collaboration with the Swiss-based Sea Cleaner organization, the Maluku Provincial Environmental Agency, and the city’s LHP.
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The Swiss-made ship is expected to arrive in November 2025 and begin operations by February 2026.
“Once operational, the ship will make our cleanup efforts far more comprehensive,” Apries said.
The city also plans to install waste retention nets at three major rivers — Galala, Waiheru, and Mardika — that flow into Ambon Bay, starting October 27, 2025.
The initiative is part of the city government’s commitment to preserve Ambon Bay’s cleanliness and beauty as a local icon.
“We want residents and tourists to enjoy a clean bay, no longer filled with plastic waste,” Apries said.
He urged residents not to dump trash into the sea or rivers, stressing that public awareness remains key.
“No matter how much equipment we provide, waste will remain a problem if people continue to litter,” he said.
The city hopes the new vessel and cleanup systems will lead to sustainable waste management and restore the bay’s natural clarity.
“Our goal is for Ambon to become a clean, eco-friendly city once again,” Apries said.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
