Kuala lumpur: The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) is conducting a feasibility study on implementing a circular economy bill for solid waste, including plastic waste, in Malaysia. This initiative aligns with the Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste launched by the ministry on August 6 last year, as stated by Minister Nga Kor Ming during the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) at the Dewan Rakyat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministry has started transitioning to a circular economy model that aims to promote economic growth while prioritizing environmental sustainability. The initiative focuses on reducing the generation of solid waste, including single-use plastics. This approach is expected to decrease the total waste generated and reduce the costs associated with managing waste and maintaining public cleanliness. Under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007, KPKT remains committed to implementing various improvements to ensure sustainable solid waste management.

Under the 13MP, the ministry plans to enhance solid waste management by strengthening governance and transitioning to more integrated, high-tech, and sustainable approaches. This will be complemented by modern recycling infrastructure to achieve a sustainable circular economy that contributes to environmental sustainability.

Minister Nga also addressed the issue of illegal dumpsites, revealing that the ministry, through the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp), has shut down 3,036 dumpsites in 2024 and conducted 2,679 operations as of July 2025. During this period, 51 cases have been prosecuted, resulting in total fines exceeding RM897,000. To bolster enforcement and supervision under the 13MP, KPKT, through SWCorp, will deploy patrol vehicles to enhance monitoring efforts in tourist areas and illegal dumpsite hotspots.