Alor Setar: The Alor Setar City Council (MBAS) is intensifying efforts to educate the public on the importance of recycling, not only as a means of environmental protection but also as a potential source of income. Alor Setar Mayor Datuk Abdul Gafar Yahya said that since taking office on Feb 2, he has prioritised environmental sustainability within MBAS-administered areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mayor Abdul Gafar Yahya emphasized that public awareness remains low. When compared to the population ratio in MBAS-covered areas, including Kota Setar and Pokok Sena, participation in recycling is still minimal. In response, MBAS is ramping up campaigns and promotions through social media while collaborating with various agencies and community neighbourhood groups (Kawasan Rukun Tetangga) to drive greater engagement.

He further added that recycling collection activities will be held more frequently in residential areas and mosques, alongside strengthened corporate social responsibility initiatives by various agencies. Abdul Gafar highlighted that the Drive-Thru Recycling Centre at Pasar Besar Peremba, Alor Setar, operated by waste management and public cleaning company E-Idaman Sdn Bhd, offers competitive prices for recyclable materials.

The mayor noted that used cooking oil can be sold for RM3 per kg, and other items such as paper, bottles, plastic, aluminium cans, iron, glass, and cardboard also hold value. He encouraged the public to take advantage of this opportunity to earn extra income while supporting environmental conservation.