KOTA KINABALU: A project transforming ocean plastic waste into eco-bricks for infrastructure development in island communities has won the United Nations Development Program’s (UNDP) Malaysia Island Innovation Challenge.
The project at Pulau Gaya, located just off the city here, was by the Meraki Daat Initiative.
Meraki Daat Initiative founder cum president Michelle de la Harpe said that their initiative was among four winners in the country to win the prestigious UNDP Malaysia Island Innovation Challenge in December last year.
"Our winning submission is the “Dive & Build” initiative; constructing eco-bricks made from recycled plastics," Michelle said on Sunday (March 23).
She said that through the "Dive & Build" project, divers collect and repurpose ocean plastics into eco-bricks, which are then used for infrastructure projects within island communities.
"This solution addresses plastic pollution and provides building materials for local needs, such as landscaping, community centres, schools, tourism facilities, pathways and small roads," Michelle added.
Collaboration with international bodies, local government agencies and industry stakeholders facilitated the efforts of non-governmental organisations.
She said they have also received support for the project in their meetings with Deputy Chief Minister III cum state Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya and Sabah Tourism Board chief executive officer Julinus Jimit for the project.
