Tourist Picks Up Trash at Pantai Senok, Shames Litterbugs in Kelantan
Tourist Shocked by Littering at Pantai Senok
During a recent trip to Pantai Senok in Kelantan, TikTok user and tourist @ivanhikestheworld — known simply as Ivan — encountered a scene that left him both dismayed and determined to act. Scattered along the beach were plastic bottles, cups, bags, and straws left behind by careless beachgoers.
Ivan decided to pick up the trash himself and share the experience on TikTok, expressing his frustration and concern over the blatant disregard for the environment.
“It’s Not My Country, But It’s Still My Planet”
In the now-viral video, Ivan can be seen bending over repeatedly to collect rubbish. He stated that while he didn’t want to clean up after others, he felt compelled to do so because of his love for the planet.
“I’m a tourist, I’m here, this isn’t my country but it’s my planet and I care about it and I care about you.”
He also pointed out that there was a rubbish bin located just 10 to 15 metres away, suggesting that the littering was entirely avoidable.
Ivan’s Message to Malaysians: Do Better
Ivan’s gesture wasn’t just about cleanliness — it was a wake-up call. He encouraged Malaysians to take responsibility for their surroundings and educate themselves about proper waste disposal.
In the video’s final scene, he demonstrated how easy it is to throw trash into the municipal council’s green bin — an act that took only seconds.
Public Response: Embarrassed, Divided, and Defensive
The video quickly attracted attention, and reactions were mixed. Some viewers admitted to feeling embarrassed by the tourist’s actions. Others, however, took a more sarcastic stance — with one user joking that “littering is Malaysian culture” and that Ivan should respect it.
The comment sparked backlash, with another user stating, “That culture should be destroyed.” Ivan himself responded calmly, explaining that littering is a global issue, not unique to Kelantan.
One viewer even shared that their friends mock them for cleaning up after themselves at restaurants — to which Ivan replied with encouragement, saying such actions inspire others through example.
Source: Tiktok
@ivanhikestheworld I’m at #pantaisenok #pantaisenokbachok #pantaisenokkelantan and I’m disappointed in my brothers and sisters. #cleanuptrash #pickuplitter #pickingupgarbage #environmentalaction #ivanhikestheworld #malaysia #travelmalaysia #bachok #bachokkelantan #trashcleanup #worldtravel #beresponsible #kelantan #johorbahru #kualalumpur #penang #trashhero Thank you @Umie Danish for helping me!
♬ original sound – ivanhikestheworld
By Tarziman — 16/06/2025, 02:39 PM
