Johor:The Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) is hopeful for an increased allocation under Budget 2027 to enhance its services.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SWCorp Chairman Hee Loy Sian emphasized the importance of a budget increase to support environmental protection efforts, address pollution, and ensure systematic and organized solid waste management. This year, SWCorp, operating under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), received RM1.5 billion to manage solid waste and public cleansing in seven states, including Johor, as per Act 672.

Hee expressed a desire for states like Selangor, Penang, Perak, Terengganu, and Kelantan to adopt Act 672, allowing SWCorp to manage waste in all 12 states entirely under KPKT in the future. He conveyed these hopes during a press conference at the Urban Community Sustainability Programme (PKKB) MADANI Community Carnival at Taman Bistari Perdana, where Johor SWCorp director Zainal Fitri Ahmad was also present.

Hee highlighted that efficient waste management is crucial to maintaining the environment, warning that improper waste handling could lead to environmental issues, such as river pollution from illegal dumpsites. He also advised the public against open burning during the haze period, noting SWCorp's collaboration with the Department of Environment (DOE) to prevent such activities.

The PKKB initiative at Taman Bistari Perdana aims to engage the community in promoting cleanliness, waste management, and environmental sustainability. Hee expressed hope that these initiatives would foster ongoing partnerships between the community, government, and industry to achieve the Johor Clean City 2030 agenda.