THE implementation of a circular economy under the Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill, 2025 is the cornerstone of Sarawak’s shift towards a cleaner, more resilient future.
Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine said provisions under Part III which introduce mandatory segregation, controlled resource management and strict licensing mark a major transformation in how the state will manage its resources and waste moving forward.
He said that the Bill empowers the proposed Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Authority (SRWMA) to declare certain materials as “controlled resources” for their commercial or energy potential, enforce compulsory segregation, designate specific collection points and take ownership of segregated waste for centralised processing.
“These measures lay the foundation for a strong circular economy in Sarawak, ensuring waste is turned into value while reducing illegal dumping and open burning,” he said when debating on the Bill during the DUN sitting here today.
He added that licensing requirements for collection, transport and waste management facilities will ensure only qualified operators handle resource recovery, further strengthening regulatory standards in the sector.
Royston also underscored the broader framework supporting the circular economy, including the establishment of SRWMA as the central coordinating and enforcement agency with extensive powers in planning, policymaking, regulatory oversight and promotion of research, training and public awareness.
He said the Bill aligns directly with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water and sanitation, affordable clean energy, sustainable cities, responsible consumption and production, climate action and biodiversity protection.
“This legislation positions Sarawak as a leader in sustainable development, benefitting not only the present generation but also those to come,” he said in supporting the Bill.
