BINTULU: Sarawak has become the first state in Malaysia to adopt a biodegradable paper bag system for the dignified disposal of worn or damaged Qurans, ensuring both the preservation of the holy text’s sanctity and the protection of the marine environment.
The method, introduced during a Quran Disposal Ceremony at Bintulu Port Jetty, was implemented in collaboration with the Bintulu Islamic Welfare Trust Board, Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) and other agencies.
Sarawak Mufti Datuk Kipli Yassin said the specially designed paper bags dissolve completely in seawater, preventing environmental pollution while safeguarding the marine ecosystem.
“This method preserves the sanctity of the Quran while supporting environmental conservation. It reflects our commitment to protecting the sea for future generations,” he said after officiating the event recently.
He noted that the innovation has been recognised as a proactive step in merging modern solutions with religious requirements, and it complies with the National Fatwa Council’s guidelines to ensure the process is carried out appropriately.
Kipli added that the method could be implemented as a standard operating procedure (SOP) across Sarawak, but would require cooperation from all relevant parties to ensure it is applied systematically and sustainably.
