by Yvonne T
KUCHING, Nov 25: Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii has proposed the introduction of monetary incentives to drive greater public and private sector participation in waste segregation and recycling across Sarawak.
Debating the Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill 2025 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) today, Yii, who is also Miri Mayor, said Miri is already introducing the ‘Monetise Your Waste & Incentivise Waste Segregation’ programme, set to begin on Jan 1, 2026, which will also include specific provisions for food waste.
He added that the Miri City Council (MCC) aims to recover a significant portion of waste through mandatory segregation and recycling, an effort that could save RM12 million annually in waste management costs.
“To encourage more active participation from the public and the private sector, I would like to propose that the Authority consider monetary incentives to support waste segregation and recycling.
“Most of the time, people respond positively when they feel their efforts are recognised and rewarded. These incentive mechanisms will accelerate behavioural change, promote greener habits and strengthen Sarawak’s transition toward a circular economy,” he said.
He said the new local initiatives, coupled with the State’s proposed legislation and an integrated waste management master plan, reflect a strong shift towards more sustainable and resource-efficient waste management practices.
“Sarawak is entering a new era of economic transformation—hydrogen economy, biomass utilisation, waste-to-energy plants, green industrial parks and circular industries. These initiatives cannot succeed without a comprehensive waste and sustainable resource management law.
“Tabling this Bill now ensures Sarawak is not only ready but competitive in the global shift towards sustainability. It is timely, strategic and essential for securing Sarawak’s green, resilient and prosperous future,” he said.
Yii described the Bill as transformative, saying it protects the environment, strengthens public health, supports the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, creates jobs, builds new industries, enhances financial sustainability, and delivers long-term benefits for Sarawakians. – DayakDaily
