Kuala Lumpur: More than 2,000 tonnes of waste are collected in the federal capital daily, with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) bearing an annual waste management cost of RM220 million. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa emphasized the urgent need for action beyond reactive measures and outdated approaches.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha highlighted the necessity for immediate action to preserve Kuala Lumpur for future generations. She expressed her commitment to addressing the waste management issue during her leadership, underscoring the importance of having a proactive agenda and effective action plan.

This statement was made in conjunction with the launch of the Kuala Lumpur Zero Waste 2040 Roadmap, a significant step towards achieving a cleaner and more sustainable federal capital. The roadmap aims for a 20 percent reduction in organic waste and a 40 percent reduction in non-organic waste sent to landfills by 2040.

Dr Zaliha stressed that achieving these targets requires a systemic change and a cultural shift. She emphasized that the responsibility should not rest solely on DBKL but must involve the collective efforts of the government, industry, communities, and educational institutions.