Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) has successfully collected nearly 1.8 tonnes of recyclable items through its inaugural 'Eko-Bernama Challenge' held at Wisma Bernama.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the programme was organised by Bernama's Corporate Affairs Division in collaboration with the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) and operated under the 'Trash to Cash' concept. About 50 Bernama employees participated, collecting various items including paper, plastic, scrap metal, and used cooking oil over the past two weeks.

Bernama's Chief Executive Officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, stated that the programme aimed to educate employees and increase awareness of recycling, aligning with the government's environmental sustainability initiatives. She noted that the initiative, although small, has the potential for expansion, possibly involving broader collaboration at the ministry level in the future.

MPAJ highlighted that the Trash to Cash programme not only reduces the amount of solid waste sent to landfills but also generates economic value from used items. The initiative supports efforts to strengthen the circular economy and reduce environmental pollution, encouraging public participation in waste separation at home.

Akmal Hakim, a participant from Bernama's Digital Library Division, emphasized the importance of environmental protection requiring cooperation from all parties. He suggested sorting, collecting, and selling recyclable items from home to not only earn a little extra income but also help maintain a clean environment.