KUALA LUMPUR – The Recycling Awareness Program is a significant community initiative that emphasizes the importance of recycling and sustainable waste management practices within the Seri Perlis 2 Public Housing community in Kuala Lumpur. This program exemplifies the power of collaboration, bringing together several key organizations, including Arus Anak Muda, the School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPACE) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur, the Faculty of Management at UTM, and local government entities.
The event took place on June 22, 2024, and its primary goal was to raise awareness about the significance of recycling and educate the community about effective recycling methods. The program included various activities such as a mobile recycling station, health check-ups, educational talks on recycling, and a barter system allowing participants to exchange recyclable items for essential goods. The initiative aimed to promote a culture of recycling, minimize waste, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment for future generations.
The main goals of the program are to raise awareness and knowledge about recycling and its environmental benefits within the Seri Perlis 2 community, involve at least 70% of community members in the recycling program through different activities and incentives, reduce the amount of waste generated by the community by 20% within six months of the program’s implementation, provide recycling bins and educational materials to every household to facilitate recycling and conduct health screenings to highlight the positive impact of a clean environment on public health.
The success of the Recycling Awareness Program can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of several key stakeholders. Arus Anak Muda, a youth organization, is leading the project’s implementation and community engagement activities, which is crucial to the program’s overall success. The SPACE UTM Kuala Lumpur and Faculty of Management UTM provide educational resources and expertise in sustainability practices, ensuring that the community receives accurate and useful information. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) supports the project through regulatory backing and the provision of necessary infrastructure. Komuniti Sihat Perkasa Negara (KOSPEN) contributes to the health check component of the program, linking environmental cleanliness with health benefits. The residents of Seri Perlis 2, as the primary beneficiaries and participants, play a crucial role in the project’s success. Volunteers and community leaders assist in organizing, promoting, and executing program activities, ensuring smooth operation and maximum reach.
The Recycling Awareness Program has significantly impacted the Seri Perlis 2 community. The provision of recycling bins and educational materials has made recycling easier, while health checks have emphasized the link between a clean environment and public health. The mobile recycling station and barter system actively involve community members, encouraging participation and a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Looking forward, the program aims to achieve its ambitious goals, which include a 20% reduction in waste within six months. The continued collaboration between stakeholders and sustained community engagement will be key to realizing these objectives. By promoting a culture of recycling and sustainability, the Recycling Awareness Program aims to create a cleaner, healthier environment for current and future generations. This program is more than just a recycling initiative; it is a beacon of hope and a model of community-driven sustainability. Education, collaboration, and active participation set a precedent for other communities to follow in the pursuit of environmental stewardship and sustainable living.
By
Mohd Zulfabli Hasan
Faculty of Management