Kuala lumpur: The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) is exploring the formation of a single agency to manage solid waste, e-waste, sewage, and radioactive waste through optimised use of resources, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Minister Nga Kor Ming stated that this initiative is part of the key strategies outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), aimed at safeguarding planetary health and achieving zero waste.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposed single agency will address the five key principles of waste management: collection, transportation, recovery, treatment, and disposal. This effort aligns with Malaysia's commitment to promoting green economic growth, advancing social well-being, and ensuring environmental sustainability, as highlighted in the Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste in Malaysia.

Minister Nga responded to a question from Datuk Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman Begri (GPS-Betong) regarding the ministry's strategic measures to strengthen solid waste management governance. He discussed aspects of the circular economy, green job creation, and the adoption of innovative technologies. In response to a supplementary question about rising solid waste management costs, Nga revealed that the government has allocated substantial funds for public cleaning under the 13MP.

Nearly RM2 billion is allocated annually to states that have adopted Act 672. Recently, Selangor and Penang have agreed in principle to adopt the act, and assistance will be extended to their respective local authorities to ensure efficient solid waste management. Additionally, under the 13MP, the government aims for 20 percent of waste collection vehicles to be electric-powered by 2027, supporting the country's decarbonisation policy.