Turning Trash into Treasure: Plastic Sculpture Installation at Kampung Pasir Pandak
From May 24 to 31, Kampung Pasir Pandak became the creative heart of something truly unique—an art installation made entirely from plastic bottle waste. As part of FAiR Project, this activity wasn’t just about making art—it was about starting conversations on environmental awareness in a fun, hands-on way.
Leading the charge was UK-based artist, James, working alongside local artist Angelina Bong, a familiar creative force in Sarawak. Together, they guided a team of 7–10 volunteers, who rolled up their sleeves and dove into this hands-on, creative process. From planning and collecting materials to assembling and fine-tuning details, the work was as fun as it was purposeful.
The result? A stunning installation featuring a crocodile, Irrawaddy dolphins, a finless porpoise, and horseshoe crabs—all sculpted from recycled plastic bottles collected from the local area. Each creature represents part of the rich coastal and river ecosystem surrounding Kampung Pasir Pandak, and each tells a story of the environmental challenges they face.
Each figure tells a story—not just about wildlife, but also about human impact on the environment, particularly plastic pollution. By turning discarded bottles into art, the sculpture highlights the importance of reusing materials and respecting the ecosystems these creatures call home.
The process itself was just as inspiring as the final piece. Villagers of all ages joined in—sorting bottles, shaping body parts, and lending their ideas and creativity. What started as “waste” soon transformed into art, with laughter, teamwork, and meaningful discussions filling each day of the activity.
This sculpture isn’t just an installation—it’s a reminder of what we throw away, what we risk losing, and what we can achieve when we come together. It now stands proudly in the kampung, a colorful beacon of awareness, collaboration, and hope for a cleaner, greener future.
Project FAiR continues to show that environmental action doesn’t have to be dull. Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity, a lot of teamwork, and the willingness to turn trash into something unforgettable.
This installation reminds us: art doesn’t just reflect reality—it can reshape it. By transforming discarded bottles into wildlife sculptures, the project encouraged everyone in Kampung Pasir Pandak to see beauty in waste and the potential for positive change. Here’s hoping that same creative spark continues to light the way—one recycled bottle at a time.
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