INGENIEUR
Open dumpsite attracting scavengers
wastes and not a word about controlling any
plastic products. Some decisions were obviously
made without much co-ordination work done,
which is much needed to solve a problem in a
holistic way. A classic example is the ban of
single use plastic straws. Which authority has
taken the initiative to control the quality of paper
straws that have been widely used to replace
the plastic straws? There do not seem to be any
co-ordination among the Ministries, and thus,
Malaysians are possibly using low-cost paper
straws that potentially contain chemicals or
bleaching agents and non-food grade materials
that are harmful to health as a “trade-off” from
the threats to the environment.
Conclusion
Compared to 20 years ago, we have improved
our solid waste management system, especially
with more efficient waste collection services and
we do not see open fire at the dumpsites every
day throughout the country. Nevertheless, the
Government has to ensure that there is another
new paradigm shift in waste management in the
new decade of 2020. Other than mainstreaming
waste management in every possible way,
ensure that all the hassles and conflicts
between different Ministries are clarified to
avoid confusion about institutional jurisdiction
on waste management. It is also time to
ensure that the mindset of all Malaysians is
geared towards that of a developed nation and
understand that waste management is a shared
responsibility. As such, we should do our part
without any expectations of monetary returns.
There will be no more free or cheap waste
management in future, existing disposal sites
are getting full, land is getting more expensive,
more advance technologies will be applied and
operational costs are getting higher. Waste
management will remain a big burden to the
Government. Therefore, more new approaches
are expected to be imposed such as introducing
packaging law, product levy and EPR regulations
to emphasise on shared responsibilities among
all relevant parties, especially the business
entities. They include the manufacturers and
importers. Certainly, someone has to pay for
waste management in future. If it is not the
Government, business entities have to pay or
individual households as stipulated in the existing
Act 672 under the direct billing clause for waste
management.
In addition, innovative waste management
solutions are expected in the coming decades, with
big data and Internet of things to be widely applied
in waste management. Reporting requirements
and integration of data at all levels of players will
be a common norm. It is time for everyone to be
more responsible in understanding the types and
volume of waste generated, who collects them,
where they finally end up, and who pays for it.
Talking about another paradigm shift, does it
mean taking another 20 years to achieve it? We
need to keep pace with challenges to grow as a
developed country, not only in terms of physical
infrastructure and income level, but also the
development of a quality mindset.
10 VOL 82 APRIL-JUNE 2020