Nga: The National Circular Economy Council (NCEC) meeting today approved in principle the proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Policy Framework and agreed to the mandatory implementation of eco-design. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said EPR was among the key focus areas of the ministry this year, emphasising the concept of government-private joint responsibility in managing solid waste.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, EPR is considered a crucial instrument in the circular economy, establishing joint responsibility between the government and industry to manage waste sustainably and responsibly, thus reducing the financial burden on the government in handling solid waste. Nga highlighted that the EPR Policy Framework developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) resulted from an engagement session with various stakeholders, particularly industry players.
He stated that the framework included key elements such as the EPR model, the determination of obligated companies, procurement targets, types of materials, implementation phases, and the roles and responsibilities of relevant stakeholders. Additionally, the NCEC approved four new policies aimed at driving the circular economy, including a proposal for the mandatory implementation of eco-design submitted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES).
Nga explained that this proposal involved the development of mandatory policies, regulations, frameworks, guidelines, and eco-design standards. The eco-designed products will foster a culture of sustainable product use and boost consumer confidence. Furthermore, Nga announced that effective Jan 1, 2026, all shopping complexes must provide recycling facilities or drive-through recycling centres as a condition for local authority (PBT) premises licences.
The council also noted the 'KITAR: Peranti Lama, Nafas Baharu' initiative, implemented by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which emphasised the importance of managing e-waste efficiently and effectively through recycling and remanufacturing processes. Additionally, PR1MA Corporation Malaysia (PR1MA) launched the Recycling Programme at Komuniti PR1MA residences, in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleaning Corporation (SWCorp).
The programme involves the purchase of used cooking oil, recycled goods, and activities aimed at raising public awareness of recycling. Nga emphasised that this initiative supports the blueprint for housing developers to provide facilities that support the circular economy and collaborate with the government in the transformation towards a low-carbon society.
All outcomes of the NCEC meeting align with the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste 2025-2035, which aim to realise the national agenda for transforming solid waste management in accordance with the circular economy model. Nga stated that the KPKT will present the outcomes of this meeting for the Cabinet's consideration and approval.
Lastly, Nga announced that Malaysia Cleanup Day would be celebrated on Sept 27 in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, with 100,000 participants representing sectors such as ministries, government departments, industries, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, security personnel, and the public. The programme is an annual event aimed at raising awareness among Malaysians about the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness.