KUALA LUMPUR: National sewerage company Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd is in the process of obtaining approval to produce fertilisers intended for food crop cultivation.
IWK chief executive officer M. Narendran said the initiative is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to promote resource recovery and drive sustainability for a greener future.
"We are in the final stages of obtaining approval for its use on food crops. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) fully supports this effort, and we expect to secure approval by the end of this year.
"This fertiliser can benefit the B40 community by supporting urban farming initiatives. We aim to offer it at highly affordable rates, making it easier for those interested in agriculture to succeed,” during Bernama TV's Ruang Bicara programme on ‘IWK: Driving Sustainability for a Greener Future’.
He said the fertiliser was developed after years of research and development (R&D), using a specialised formulation created by IWK.
"This fertiliser is derived from sewage sludge, blended with empty fruit bunches (EFB), rice husks and other components to achieve a Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (NPK) value exceeding 4% making it comparable to organic fertilisers,” he said.
Separately, Narendran said IWK has also conducted research to optimise wastewater treatment plants by implementing improved aeration systems, space-saving designs and energy-efficient processes that enhance microbial performance in biological treatment.
On innovations or projects in development, he said IWK has identified nearly 1,000 out of 7,500 treatment plants as potential sites for solar panel installations.
"We have invited private sector participation through open tender, allowing companies to invest in solar energy infrastructure,” he added. - Bernama
