EFFECTIVE and sustainable waste management is a pressing need for Sarawak, said Baleh assemblyman Nicholas Kudi Jantai.
He said this is because economic growth, the development of new areas, and an increasing population have led to a rise in domestic and industrial waste.
“If left unaddressed systematically, this could result in environmental pollution, public health risks, and higher disposal costs for local authorities,” he said when debating in support of the Sustainable Resources and Waste Management Bill 2025 during DUN sitting today.
He highlighted that the Bill provides a comprehensive framework based on the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling.
“This approach not only eases pressure on disposal sites but also conserves natural resources and reduces carbon impact on the environment,” he added.
He stressed the importance of community involvement in waste management, including participation from schools, residents’ associations, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“Success will only be achieved when the public understands their responsibility and engages in waste separation and recycling programmes,” he said.
Nicholas also welcomed the Bill’s focus on improving waste management infrastructure.
He said Sarawak requires more efficient collection systems, modern disposal sites, and better processing and recycling facilities.
“With a clear legal framework, the development of such infrastructure can be implemented in a planned and consistent manner,” he said.
However, he noted that enforcement remains the biggest challenge.
“The number of local authority enforcement officers is limited, and Sarawak’s vast operational areas, especially in rural regions, make illegal dumping difficult to monitor. “Although laws and penalties exist, compliance is low due to evidence-gathering difficulties and lengthy prosecution processes,” he explained.
He also proposed several measures to strengthen enforcement, including the use of drones, smart CCTV, and GPS monitoring; establishing a State Environmental Enforcement Unit; tightening contracts with waste contractors; developing a geotagged public complaint app; and providing a dedicated fund for enforcement operations.
