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by Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Sept 7: Sarawak is investigating the incorporation of waste materials such as processed recycled rubber and plastics into the composition of asphalt used in road construction, paving the way for more sustainable infrastructure development.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas highlighted the potential of these new technologies, stating that they could redefine the State’s roads and runways, ultimately contributing to a more environmentally friendly world.
Although Sarawak has yet to utilise these technologies, Uggah noted that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has shown interest by visiting PETRONAS in Kuala Lumpur to witness experiments with processed recycled plastic.
Abang Johari has also directed the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak to explore the incorporation of plastic in road construction materials.
Speaking at the ‘Revolutionizing Road and Airport Infrastructure’ seminar, Uggah emphasised the educational value of exploring new materials in road construction. He mentioned that materials like used rubber tires and plastics, instead of being sent to landfills, could be processed into building materials.
During the seminar, experts Dr Filippo Giustozzi and Dr Yeong Jia Boom presented insights into recycling waste materials for road construction, highlighting the potential benefits of recycling and sustainable practices.
Uggah acknowledged that the implementation of processed recycled rubber and plastic materials would require further research and adherence to relevant standards, similar to practices in Australia, where waste recycling technology has been used in road construction projects.
While the immediate adoption of these materials may not be imminent, Uggah expressed optimism about their potential application in Sarawak and hoped that the private sector would play a leading role in processing waste materials for road construction, aligning with Sarawak’s innovative and green economy initiatives.
The seminar was attended by key figures, such as JKR Sarawak director Richard Tajan, Hock Seng Lee Berhad executive director Simon Lau, and Institute Engineering Malaysia Sarawak chairman Stephanie Sim. — DayakDaily
