Taman Rajang ‘Waste to Wealth’ targets 1,000kg in recyclables

SIBU (Sept 21): A ‘Waste to Wealth’ recycling programme carried out at the Taman Rajang Community Clinic parking lot here today aims to collect 1,000kg in recyclable materials, said Councillor Kiing Teck Ho.

He said this initiative, launched by Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) in collaboration with various local neighborhood committees in August 2022, is part of the council’s ongoing efforts to manage solid waste sustainably, including combating climate change.

“We aim to collect 1,000kg here, but overall we are expecting a higher volume as we are also running the same programme in two other locations today,” he said.

Kiing said the programme is carried out in different locations every week in an effort to encourage recycling among the public and reduce the amount of recyclable materials entering landfills.

The ‘Waste to Wealth’ programme offers cash rebates to those sending in their recyclables such as newspapers, plastic bottles, used cooking oil and more, he added.

Today’s programme was organised by SMC in collaboration with Zion Methodist Church, and the village security and development committees of Taman Rajang, Jalan Merdeka, Jalan Berjaya, Jalan Oya, and Jalan Pearl Garden.

Also present were councillors Kong Leh Ek and Rory Wong Ee Yion, and kapitans So Teck Kee and Ling Hua Wee.

Separately, Kiing reminded the public, especially in the Taman Rajang neighborhood, that dog-bite cases remain a concern in the area.

“I have been informed that there are a relatively high number of dog-bite cases in Taman Rajang, but I have yet to receive the updated figures. As a reminder, the public in the Taman Rajang area should be more vigilant to reduce cases of dog bites in their neighborhood.”

He called on dog owners to ensure their pets do not roam freely, and for the public to avoid approaching any stray dogs.

“Please report the presence of strays in your area to the authorities so that they can be rounded up. This can help reduce the number of dog-bite cases,” he added.