By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau — More than 50 employees of the Koror State Government and officers from the Bureau of Public Safety joined forces on Tuesday, June 17, for a community clean-up campaign dubbed “Walk and Pick.”
The event, a collaborative initiative led by Koror Governor Eyos Rudimch in partnership with Police Director Curtis Elobt and the Ministry of Justice, aimed to beautify the state and strengthen interagency cooperation ahead of the upcoming Pacific Mini Games.
Participants were divided into teams and walked through Koror’s streets, collecting litter in various hamlets, from the Palau-Japan Friendship Bridge to surrounding neighborhoods.
Joining the cleanup were Minister of Justice Jennifer Olegeriil, Youth Division Chief Sanya Olkeriil, Transnational Crimes Division Chief Kenny Sengebau, other MOJ officials and police officers. Koror State employees, including Governor Rudimch, chiefs, directors, and other government staff, made up the majority of volunteers.
Minister Olegeriil said the event was more than just a beautification effort—it was a symbol of strengthened cooperation between the Ministry of Justice, Koror State Rangers, and the state government.
“Some members of the public might ask, ‘Why are police officers picking up trash?’” Olegeriil said. “It’s because efforts like these foster positive partnerships and reinforce our shared responsibility to serve the community.”
She emphasized that with Koror playing a central role in hosting the Pacific Mini Games, activities such as the clean-up signal MOJ’s readiness and willingness to collaborate with any agency to enhance public safety and community spirit.
A post on Koror State Government’s official social media page stated that the cleanup spanned all Koror hamlets. It also included a message from Governor Rudimch, who extended a warm welcome to all participating island nations and expressed hopes for a successful and memorable regional event.