Story by Caleb Yeoh
Pix by Ahmad Adil
TACKLING the problem of proper waste management is part of Penang’s mantra of a ”Cleaner, Greener, Healthier and Safer Penang”.
As of late, a few avenues have been initiated in line with proper disposal of waste and trash.
Some notable initiatives include the Penang International Green Carnival which is set to return in September and strong efforts from Permatang Nibong on the mainland, working directly with the Seberang Perai Municipal Council (MPSP) to cultivate a zero waste community.
Falling in line with the flow of events in regards to ultimately, a greener and healthier Penang, the National Seminar on Environment and Solid Waste Management was held at Cititel on March 31 and April 1, focusing on sharing ideas and exchanging experiences among various state councillors and government officers on the issue of solid waste management.
Speaking at the seminar, state exco member for Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Phee Boon Poh presented two initiatives that Penang will implement to help better the current solid waste management situation.
Firstly, the state aims to initiate waste segregation into different categories to help the state better collect and dispose of waste as well as help the state save money as there will be less waste to deal with.
“This segregation would start at the source, including homes and factories and will begin by the end of the year. This process will take up some time as factors like cost, charges and collection systems must be carefully drawn up,” Phee said.
Also, another step the Penang government will be implementing is the recruitment of workers to take care of the landfill at Pulau Burung.
Phee said that this step helps everyone as it helps manage the landfill and provide better and more secure working prospects for these people who already are collecting recyclable items from the landfill illegally.
“They will need to register and then be taken into a private company that will be working with the state on solid waste management,” Phee added.