27 ratepayers use proceeds to offset assessment tax
AMPANG Jaya Municipal Council’s (MPAJ) initiative allowing residents to offset assessment tax from the sale of recyclable waste is gaining traction, but more awareness is needed.
Only 27 account holders have participated in the initiative since it was introduced on June 1, with RM416.65 credited into their accounts, said MPAJ.
Kampung Pandan Dalam village head Marzuki Samsuddin said the tax component to the recycling programme was still relatively new.
“The Trash-to-Cash recycling initiative itself has been growing in popularity.
“Many residents will collect recyclable items over several months before selling them when MPAJ organises a collection programme here.
“Since the tax offset was introduced, we have been informing residents of the option to use proceeds to pay their assessment tax.”
Marzuki said a one-day Trash-to-Cash programme in the village typically saw about one tonne of recyclable materials.
Resident Juaita Safian welcomed the initiative, saying it not only encouraged recycling but also helped residents reduce their assessment tax payment.
“However, I only found out about the scheme after I had paid my assessment tax online for this year, so I wasn’t able to utilise it.
“I can see how this could be useful for those with arrears who are unable to settle the amount in one lump sum.”
Juaita said she regularly kept track of upcoming Trash-to-Cash programmes so she could sell her recyclable items.
Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) Sector C chairman Samshor Baharin said the regular recycling programme had also helped reduce illegal dumping in the village.
“We used to have piles of discarded plastic items and old metal appliances, but that has mostly been resolved because people know they can sell them instead.
“I hope MPAJ will continue the programme next year because many residents are not aware of it and have not had the opportunity to benefit from it.”
MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari said the initiative would be extended beyond its current Dec 31 deadline and continue next year.
He said one of the main challenges was low public awareness and understanding of the programme.
“There is a misconception that it is a tax rebate or discount, when in fact it is a payment mechanism that allows ratepayers to use proceeds from the sale of recyclable materials to offset their assessment tax.
“Sustaining the programme requires continuous involvement from residents, supported by ongoing promotion, public education and close cooperation with resident groups,” he said.
As of July 26, MPAJ had credited RM85,544 to ratepayers through its Trash-to-Cash initiative since the programme was introduced several years ago.
Between Jan 1 and July 26 this year, the council collected 108.9 tonnes of recyclable materials under the programme.
