Sepang: Creating sculptures from recycled materials is an innovative way to raise public awareness of sustainable waste management, demonstrating that solid waste can yield high returns when processed creatively.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) chief executive officer Khalid Mohamed said the 'One Sculpture, One Office' initiative, launched in June 2025, intends to change public perception that solid waste lacks worth, but instead it shows that waste can be converted into valuable art through creative skill. Khalid highlighted the potential for waste to be commercialised with high value when creatively processed, aiming to encourage the community not to discard these materials. He shared these insights after the Sepang Sustainable Sculpture Handover Ceremony, officiated by Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu.
Utilising a 'waste-to-art' strategy, the SWCorp initiative combines public art with environmental education to enhance the landscape and reduce dependency on landfills. The initiative has successfully installed 47 recycled sculptures across nine states in six months, demonstrating SWCorp's dedication to the 5R practices: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover.
Khalid detailed the primary materials used in constructing the 47 sculptures, which included scrap metal, aluminium, tyres, rubber, old bicycle components, and plastics. These materials were transformed into public sculptures, representing various forms such as aeroplanes, sailing boats, and depictions of flora and fauna.
The project employed a collaborative approach involving local communities and authorities (PBT). SWCorp funded costs ranging from RM5,000 to RM10,000 per sculpture, while the PBT provided suitable locations. Khalid noted that many people visited the sites, took photos, and shared them on social media.
SWCorp's innovative efforts received recognition from ASEAN and ASIA for the 'Largest Single-Programme Multi-State Outdoor Recycled Sculpture Installation by a Government Agency', which involved the installation of 45 sculptures in eight states over six months. To further support the initiative, SWCorp installed centralised bins in Bagan Lalang to improve waste management and maintain a cleaner environment for the community and visitors.
Deputy Minister Aiman Athirah mentioned that the sculptures serve as effective visual symbols to educate the public on environmental preservation and sustainability. She referenced the aeroplane sculpture's significance in reflecting Sepang's identity as Malaysia's main gateway through Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The use of recycled materials in the sculpture illustrates the potential of solid waste to achieve value when managed creatively.
In addition to the aeroplane, a boat sculpture was installed at Golden Palm Tree Resort and Spa, crafted from scrap iron, drum barrels, recycled boards, and plastic parts.