THE Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill 2025 is anchored on four key pillars designed to transform how Sarawak manages its resources and waste.
Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada said the proposed ordinance introduces a comprehensive framework centred on waste reduction at source, mandatory segregation, strengthened recycling and composting systems, and incentives to boost accountability.
“These pillars are not merely administrative guidelines but transformational steps that shift Sarawak towards a future where economic strength does not come at the expense of our environment,” he said this when debating on the bill at the DUN sitting here today.
Dr Simon added the Bill positions waste as a resource and sustainability as a competitive advantage for the state.
He noted that the Bill answers a crucial question on how Sarawak can continue developing without compromising the quality of its land, water and natural resources.
He also described waste as a growing and immediate concern, pointing out that pollution now affects streets, waterways, the air and even the food chain.
Sarawak, he said, continues to generate significant volumes of plastic, food, electronic and agricultural waste.
“These translate into three major issues, environmental damage, economic burden and health risks. Allowing this to continue is not an option,” he stressed.
He added the Bill’s holistic approach would reduce landfill dependence, generate green jobs, and promote savings for households and businesses. Strengthened recycling and composting infrastructure would also help stimulate a circular economy.
Beyond environmental gains, Dr Simon said the ordinance offers broader economic, social and public health benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, cleaner communities and conservation of natural resources.
He also addressed concerns over potential implementation costs, assuring that the long-term cost of inaction would be far more severe.
“This is not a burden. It is an investment one that yields long-term savings and benefits,” he said.
He also pledged his full support for the Bill, calling it a commitment to a clean, modern and sustainable Sarawak.
“For the sake of our present and future generations, supporting this ordinance is not simply the right choice, it is the only choice,” he said.
