SARIKEI: Recycling collection here soared by 52 per cent in 2024, a significant achievement credited to the success of the Electrical and Electronic Waste (e-waste) collection campaign and the 3R Goods Purchase programme.
Sarikei District Council (MDS) Chairman, Wong Kie Yong, said the increase reflects growing public awareness and commitment to environmental sustainability.
“I express my appreciation to MDS staff, council members, and the local community who have consistently worked together to ensure the success of this initiative since its implementation in 2022,” Wong said during the campaign event at the MDS office compound on Sunday.
“Year after year, this campaign is increasingly anticipated by the people of Sarikei. This surge in collection proves that public awareness of the importance of 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) practices is strengthening.”
He stressed that e-waste is categorised as scheduled waste and must be disposed of through safe and proper methods.
He also reminded attendees that plastic waste can take up to 10,000 years to decompose if not managed responsibly.
“Every small action – like separating bottles, paper, or used cooking oil – can have a significant impact if practiced collectively,” he added.
Wong also thanked government agencies, the private sector, Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK), Rukun Tetangga (KRT), and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for their support, both direct and indirect.
The one-day campaign allowed the public to dispose of e-waste responsibly while encouraging a sustainable recycling culture at the grassroots level.
