Selangor: The Selangor state government is prepared to explore the possibility of merging two waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration plant projects located in Batu Arang, Rawang, and Jeram, Kuala Selangor. This initiative aims to enhance the sustainable management of solid waste across the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced that the state government plans to hold discussions with stakeholders, including the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) and the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) within the Prime Minister's Department. The objective is to evaluate the feasibility of combining the two projects into a single, more efficient operation.
"We are ready to discuss with UKAS and KPKT to merge the two projects into one, in the areas around Rawang and Jeram," Amirudin stated during a press conference following the launch of the 'Program Tekad Pendidikan Kita Selangor 2025.' He further elaborated that a merger could potentially mitigate the environmental impact of the WTE projects.
Amirudin emphasized the urgency of addressing Selangor's escalating waste management demands, noting that the state currently produces 8,000 tonnes of waste daily. As part of the state's strategic vision, there is also consideration for establishing a new WTE site in Tanjung 12, contingent on further assessments of the area's needs and suitability.
While the discussions are still in preliminary stages, Amirudin highlighted the importance of moving forward with the development of WTE facilities to ensure the sustainability of waste management practices in Selangor. The evaluation process, including an environmental impact assessment (EIA), is expected to span approximately one year.
The plan for a WTE plant in Batu Arang received initial approval from the Selangor state government in November 2022. The proposed facility, designed to handle 2,400 tonnes of waste daily, would be situated on a 99.15-hectare site. However, the project has faced opposition from local residents due to concerns about potential environmental, societal, and health impacts.