By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 18: Schools in Sarawak’s Southern Zone collected an impressive 211,454.09 kilogrammes of recyclable materials, contributing significantly to the School Recycling Campaign 2024’s total of 337,878.72 kilogrammes.
A total of 90 schools participated, with 48 schools from the Southern Zone and 42 from the Central Zone.
Permanent secretary to the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datu Elizabeth Loh highlighted that this year’s campaign saw an 18.51 per cent increase in recycling rates compared to last year, when schools gathered 285,112 kilogrammes.
“This reflects the growing awareness and dedication of students, educators, and school communities towards environmental stewardship. Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding contributions and achievements,” she said during the prize presentation ceremony at the Auditorium of Pustaka Negeri in Petra Jaya yesterday (Jan 17).
Loh emphasised that recycling is not just an environmental responsibility but a critical component of sustainable development.
As Sarawak, like the rest of the world, faces pressing challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and pollution, she noted that recycling is a key solution to conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
“Recycling reduces the demand for raw materials, lessening the environmental strain caused by activities like mining and deforestation. It also prevents waste from filling landfills and incinerators, both of which significantly degrade the environment.
“Beyond its environmental benefits, recycling promotes environmental consciousness and teaches the younger generation the importance of sustainable practices,” she added.
She also noted that such efforts are crucial for building sustainable cities and communities, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) and the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Sarawak’s green economy policy emphasises balancing high-income development with nature preservation, and initiatives like the buy-back programme and e-waste collection campaigns demonstrate this commitment, embodying the principle of “giving back” to the community while encouraging environmental innovation and sustainability.
“Environmental sustainability is not just a campaign or policy—it is a shared responsibility and a way of life. Each of us has a critical role to play. Whether through simple acts like sorting waste at home or actively engaging in recycling programs, every small action contributes to a greener and more sustainable Sarawak,” she said.
Loh urged local authorities to continue promoting low-carbon initiatives and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility in their communities.
“Let us make the 3R philosophy—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—not just a slogan but a way of life,” she added.
The program was jointly organised by the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak, Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd, Tetra Pak (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, the Department of Education Sarawak, and 11 local councils, including five from the Southern Zone. — DayakDaily
