Penguang (back row, fifth from left) with the main winners of the competition.
Sibu has made strides in sustainability through various efforts.
“Sibu’s dedication to environmental sustainability inspires other communities and shows the result of collective action,” said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian.
His views were expressed during the prize presentation ceremony for the central zone School Recycling Campaign 2024.
The text of Dr Sim’s speech was read out by his representative, Sarawak Deputy Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil.
According to Dr Sim, Sibu’s success was due to its green initiatives which had encouraged more sustainable practices.
These included programmes banning the use of plastic straws, plastic bags and polystyrene food containers.
Sibu residents also participated in programmes like “Waste to Wealth”.
Dr Sim praised these efforts that show Sibu residents’ dedication to responsible waste management.
He said Sibu’s focus on recycling and reducing landfill waste resulted in the city conserving resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
He pointed out that achieving environmental sustainability required more than just policies, and said, “It demands a collective commitment from each and every one of us.”
Dr Sim also called on local authorities to continue championing low-carbon initiatives.
“When low-carbon living becomes a norm, we can mitigate climate change and inspire future generations to uphold these values,” he said.
On the School Recycling Campaign, he said it had collected 126,424.63kg of items from 30 primary and 12 secondary schools.
This achievement was a result of efforts by Sibu Municipal Council, Sibu Rural District Council, Sarikei District Council, Maradong and Julau District Council, Dalat and Mukah District Council, and Matu and Daro District Council over six months. — By ANDY CHUA
