PENANG’s first-ever drive-through recycling centre, known as the “Drop for Cash” initiative, has been launched at Taman Sri Pinang in Jelutong.
The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) project aims to encourage recycling by offering cash in exchange for recyclable items.
State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported that the centre, which began operations on Feb 1, will enable residents to exchange their recyclable materials for cash, with rebates offered for every 3kg of recyclables.
Speaking at the launch, Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said recyclable items such as aluminium, paper, plastics and others could be exchanged for cash.
“Payments will be transferred via e-wallets and processed within 12 to 36 hours,” he said.
Rajendran expressed confidence in the centre’s success.
“I believe many people will take advantage of this initiative as it is conveniently located,” he said.
The initiative aligns with MBPP’s goal of improving recycling rates on Penang island.
In 2024, the island achieved a recycling rate of 41.78%, surpassing the national average of 35.38%.
To participate, the public can scan the QR code at the centre to get a receipt or sticker.
This receipt must be attached to the recyclable items and cash rebates will then be credited to their e-wallets.
“We believe this encourages proper disposal of recyclable items,” Rajendran added.
Penang social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, who was present, stressed the importance of such initiatives to reduce the burden on the Pulau Burong landfill in the future.
