Tiang (fourth from left) launching the campaign, witnessed by Ting (centre) and Kong (third from right).
Malaysia must enact more comprehensive laws and policies on electronic waste management, in view of the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs).
Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting said EVs were expected to pose a major challenge to local authorities in the future.
He said the emergence of EVs, together with increasing use of modern electronic equipment, necessitated a new approach to waste management.
The public is reminded not to dispose of e-waste indiscriminately. — Filepic
“This is because components like batteries and electronic devices have the potential to adversely affect public health and the environment if they are not properly managed.
“Although the volume of computer and ICT equipment waste is still relatively small at present, the anticipated rise in EV usage means that early planning must begin now,” he said at a recycling campaign at E-Waste Recycling Centre organised by Sarawak ICT Association (Sicta).
The programme was launched by Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang.
Sicta Sibu branch chairman Kong Sieng Kieng also attended the event.
Measures suggested by Ting included formulation of appropriate policies and legislation to ensure e-waste could be disposed of safely and effectively.
In this regard, he said Sicta played a vital role in assisting local authorities address what he described as a future challenge, particularly in managing EV components, which was expected to increase in use.
Meanwhile, Tiang commended Sicta for running an e-waste recycling campaign for almost two decades as part of its corporate social responsibility, and for helping the government prepare for future waste management challenges.
He said e-waste recycling centres should be expanded to meet the needs of Sibu’s growing population.
Tiang also urged the public not to store old electronic equipment at home or dispose of them in drains, rivers or by roadsides, as damaged or deteriorating components, especially batteries, could pose serious hazards.
“Sustainable waste management is in line with aspirations of Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which places environmental sustainability as one of the key pillars of Sarawak’s development,” he said.
Tiang, who is also Pelawan assemblyman, proposed that SMC establish another e-waste management centre in Taman Indah for public convenience to dispose of such waste.
“We would like one to be set up in the lower part of Sibu, specifically at Taman Indah near Pasar Minggu Sibu so people do not have to travel far to dispose of their unwanted items,” he said.
