THE media’s role in raising environmental awareness was formally recognised when the Waste Management Association of Malaysia (WMAM) presented Star Media Group (SMG) with the Green Journalism Award.
The award honours The Star’s consistent reporting on sustainability, waste management, environmental stewardship and community-led green efforts. Bernama and Sin Chew were also recognised for their contributions.
More than a recognition of journalistic excellence, the award reflects the media’s influence in informing the public, shaping behaviour and supporting policy change towards a more sustainable Malaysia.
All three media organisations were acknowledged for their strong environmental coverage, in-depth reporting that promotes accountability and advocacy for greener policies and business practices. The awards were presented during WMAM’s 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur, held alongside the WMAM Annual Conference 2025 from Sept 8 to 9.
Themed “Smart Waste Management: Harnessing Technology for a Greener Tomorrow,” the two-day event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and local authorities to explore the role of technology in addressing waste challenges, from AI-based systems to Waste-to-Energy (WTE) solutions.
Notable attendees included Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, National Solid Waste Management Department director-general Datuk Azhar Yahya, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Public Cleansing Corporation chairman Hee Loy Sian and SWCorp chief executive officer Khalid Mohamed.
International guests included International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) president James Law and global representatives from waste management bodies.
As Malaysia moves toward a circular economy, the conference reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, industry, civil society and the media in driving sustainable progress.
