Melaka: The Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) is ramping up its national campaign with the slogan ‘Jangan Gunalah: Bebas Plastik Bermula Dari Saya’ (Don’t Use It: Plastic-Free Starts With Me) to encourage efforts aimed at reducing single-use plastics among the public.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SWCorp chairman Hee Loy Sian highlighted that the campaign serves as a strategic approach to tackle pollution and its health implications, while also introducing long-term solid waste management strategies nationwide. This initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and local authorities, aims to elevate public consciousness regarding the dangers of single-use plastics, which include items like takeaway containers, plastic straws, and everyday utensils.

Hee emphasized the environmental risks posed by inadequately managed plastic waste, which often ends up in rivers and eventually the sea, adversely affecting marine life and human health through seafood consumption. He stressed that the campaign goes beyond a slogan, advocating for a comprehensive lifestyle change that underscores individual accountability for environmental sustainability, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 and 12.

Hee revealed that over 38,000 tonnes of solid waste are produced daily in the country, with nearly 15 percent being single-use plastic. In Melaka, approximately 1,100 tonnes of waste are directed to the Sungai Udang landfill each day, and nearly 57 percent is recyclable if proper waste separation is practiced by the community.

“Everyone has a part to play; we aim to eliminate the ‘use-and-throw’ culture, replacing it with a culture of reuse. It may seem like a small step, but it carries significant implications for our shared planet,” he remarked.

In addition, Hee announced plans for constructing a new temporary landfill cell next year at the existing Sungai Udang site, given its nearing full capacity. This measure is vital to maintain controlled solid waste management in Melaka and mitigate pollution risks, including the threat of leachate leaking into rivers and contaminating water sources.

“The new cell’s construction is a temporary solution while awaiting the Waste-to-Energy (WTE) treatment plant, anticipated to be operational by 2029,” he concluded.