KUCHING: A RM200,000 Recycling Centre is planned for development in Kampung Tabuan Melayu as part of the Rural Transformation Programme, serving as a community-driven sustainable waste management initiative.
Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability and Demak Laut assemblyman, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, said the facility should be operational within 12 to 18 months and will function as a blueprint for similar schemes elsewhere.
“The centre will prioritise organised waste management by engaging local residents through the Village Development and Security Committee or cooperative structures.
“Individual villages will establish their own administrative bodies to oversee the collection and weighing of refuse, which will then be logged into point-based incentive scheme.
“Accumulated points from this scheme may be exchanged for essential items including foodstuffs and household provisions,” he explained.
He made these remarks during the official launch of the 2026 Kampung Tabuan Melayu and Tabuan Park Environmental Cleanup Gotong-Royong Programme earlier today.
Dr Hazland noted that the approach reflects principles regularly championed by the Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Waste can be monetised, or in other words, recyclable materials can be converted into renewable energy and economic value.
“The initiative will additionally promote better waste management practices and support community-level efforts to mitigate climate change impacts,” he stated.
He further mentioned that the exact site for the recycling facility remains under consideration, with possibilities including current premises or adjacent land near the village hall.
Addressing another topic, Dr Hazland disclosed that educational grants were distributed to 32 Kampung Tabuan Melayu residents enrolled in tertiary education.
“Since 2012, I have been providing these grants to support constituents from Demak Laut in accessing higher education opportunities.
“Annually, around 200 students benefit from this assistance, spanning diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD levels.
“Beyond offering financial support, the scheme allows us to monitor academic progression, graduate employment prospects and potential career placement assistance,” he noted.
He emphasised that the educational initiative operates in partnership with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to enhance funding capacity and motivate students securing places at tertiary institutions.
