KUCHING: Timuran Kembangan Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), has launched a new community-driven recycling initiative to promote environmental responsibility and tackle pollution.
This initiative, launched just a week ago, focuses on collecting and recycling used oil from homes, encouraging residents here to take responsibility for their waste and reduce environmental impact.
The collection event for used items was held on Saturday (Nov 16) at the Prima Residential Area, Jalan Daya, as part of the pilot recycling programme.
Timuran Kembangan managing director Johnny Ting highlighted the importance of raising public awareness about the value of used oil and its potential for recycling.
“Used cooking oil has a lot of value. Instead of discarding it, we can recycle it to prevent it from clogging drains, which can lead to problems like rodent infestations and health hazards,” he said.
Through this initiative, Timuran Kembangan aims to not only educate the public on the environmental consequences of improper oil disposal but also provide a solution: residents can sell their used cooking oil back.
“By selling the used oil, we contribute to a circular economy, reducing the need for new oil production and promoting a sustainable, eco-friendly practice,” Ting added.
The initiative has already gained traction, with more residents becoming aware of the benefits of recycling used oil.
Ting is confident as the programme expands, more people will choose to keep and sell their used oil, rather than disposing of it irresponsibly.
“The more people understand the impact, the more they will take part in the recycling process, ensuring that oil doesn’t end up in drains or the environment,” he said.
Environmental lawyer Stephanie Ting, who is also supporting the initiative, underscored the broader social and environmental responsibility behind the campaign.
“Recycling is not just about protecting the environment; it’s about personal and family responsibility.
“We need to raise awareness across Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, and beyond. This is an urgent issue that requires immediate action,” she said.
Having worked with international environmental organisations, she stressed the importance of education in fostering a culture of recycling.
“In many countries, recycling is enforced by law. People have to pay for their waste disposal, and they bring it to designated recycling centres.
“This system helps educate the public on proper waste management and encourages a responsible attitude toward recycling.”
Stephanie said recycling is much more than just an act.
“It’s about changing our attitude toward waste. It’s about promoting sustainability, personal well-being, and understanding the long-term benefits of recycling,” she stressed.
The collaboration between Timuran Kembangan and MBKS represents a significant step toward creating a more sustainable city.
As the initiative gains momentum, additional collection points for used oil will be set up across the city.
Information on collection schedules and locations will be shared via social media platforms such as Facebook, keeping the community informed and engaged.
“This is just the beginning. Our goal is to expand this initiative beyond Kuching, inspiring other communities across Sarawak, Malaysia, and eventually, globally.
“We believe that small actions can lead to significant environmental change,” said Ting.
