Engage in schools’ 3R campaign, local councils told

SIBU (Dec 16): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has urged more local councils to participate in school recycling campaigns to further spread the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) spirit across Sarawak’s rural areas.

According to him, while progress is being made, rural and coastal communities still face unique waste management challenges.

“Scattered settlements, challenging terrain, and long travel distances often make regular waste collection difficult.

“This reality underscores the importance of awareness, education, and behavioural change.

“In this context, school programmes like recycling campaigns become even more significant.

“Our students can act as ambassadors of good waste practices, instilling 3R values at home, and motivating their families to adopt more responsible habits.

“Their contributions can help reduce open burning, minimise illegal dumping, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility across rural Sarawak,” he said at the prize-giving ceremony for the School Recycling Campaign (Central Zone) 2025 here on Monday.

Dr Sim was represented by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang.

Adding on, Dr Sim said achieving environmental sustainability would require collective ownership and consistent action from everyone.

He also highlighted the state’s efforts in strengthening its waste management system more holistically and sustainably.

“Under Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and the forthcoming Sustainable Resources and Waste Management Bill, Sarawak is transitioning from a disposal-focused system to a circular-economy model.

“The move emphasises waste reduction, segregation at source, recycling and resource recovery as the core pillars of future waste management,” he said.

Dr Sim also urged all local authorities to continue embracing low-carbon initiatives and fostering a culture of responsibility.

“Let us work together to ensure that the 3R philosophy becomes a daily practice embedded in our lifestyles, not just a campaign slogan.

“When sustainable choices become second nature, we reduce our carbon footprint and inspire future generations to uphold these values,” he said.

Meanwhile, a total of 71 schools comprising 54 primary and 17 secondary schools under the jurisdiction of six local authorities participated in the campaign, collecting a total of 203,572.39kg of recyclable materials between May 18 and Nov 18, 2025.

Dr Sim hailed such achievement as reflecting the enthusiasm, commitment and teamwork of both children and teenagers.

“It also shows that environmental awareness can begin early in life.

“As students grow older, they develop stronger habits and leadership in sustainability, helping to build a future generation that understands and practises responsible waste management,” he said.

Also present was Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government permanent secretary Datu Elizabeth Loh.