Mail Online
British tourist discovers 'Asia's dirtiest town' and the locals agree
Ben, who goes by @backpacker_ben on social media, recently shared a clip on TikTok from his trip to Malaysia .
113
1k
110
39k
Environmental Crisis Unveiled in Semporna: Asia's "Dirtiest Town"
Semporna, Malaysia, a town often considered a gateway to stunning dive sites and pristine islands, has recently been highlighted by a traveler as "Asia's Dirtiest Town" due to severe environmental degradation. Video footage captured by a vlogger, "Backpacker Ben," on September 25, 2025, reveals extensive pollution, with vast amounts of plastic waste and debris choking the waterways and surrounding residential areas built on stilts. The visual evidence shows trash accumulating beneath homes and along the coastline, creating an overwhelming and unpleasant environment that starkly contrasts with the region's natural beauty. The vlogger describes the pervasive foul odor, stating, "If only you can smell what I'm smelling, it's exactly how you can imagine." He further noted the distressing sight of a dog navigating the piles of refuse, illustrating the dire conditions faced by local wildlife. The video also points out that the pollution is evident even at the tourist jetty, the initial point of contact for visitors arriving to explore the region's natural beauty. This stark contrast raises significant concerns about environmental management and the sustainability of tourism in the area. The prevalence of litter, despite the vlogger's personal efforts not to contribute, underscores a systemic issue that impacts both local residents and the region's ecological health, demanding urgent attention from local authorities and environmental organizations.
