MELAKA, 28 January 2026

A total of 234,143 kilogrammes ofrecyclable waste was collected in Melaka throughout last yearthrough the KITARecycle reward-based recycling programme,reflecting a significant increase in public awareness of sustainablepractices and lifestyles.

SWM Environment Corporate General Manager Mohd NorlisamMohd Nordin said the amount collected rose by more than 16,000kilogrammes from 217,545 kilogrammes recorded in 2024.

"The achievemment reflects the community's commitment to the importance of environmental sustainable through efforts to reduce solid waste sent to landfills, in line with the aspiration forsustainable and liveable urban development.

“During the same period, the paper and plastic categoriesrecorded the highest collections, at 95,931 kilogrammes (95.93tonnes) and 40,605 kilogrammes (40.61 tonnes), respectively,” hes aid in a statement here today.

He said the increase in collection was also driven by theencouraging response from KITARecycle members who sentrecyclable items to collection facilities provided throughout thestate.

Mohd Norlisam said the KITARecycle Drive-Through Centre (PPLK)at the Melaka Botanical Garden recorded a significant increase of63.38 per cent, with total receipts of 46,785 kilogrammes in 2025compared with 28,636 kilogrammes in the previous year.

“This proves that facilities such as the PPLK are increasingly well-received by the local community as they provide easier access forthe delivery of recyclable items.

“To further expand public access, recyclable items can be sent toseveral collection facilities, including those at Sungai PutatApartments, Batu Berendam, TS Park Taman Desa Bertam, as wellas more than 60 other facilities comprising collection centres andrecycling cages across Melaka,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said KITARecycle membership in Melaka alsoincreased to nearly 25,000 members as of December 2025,compared with 16,783 members in 2024.

“This, in turn, has contributed to the reduction of solid waste, as wellas to Melaka’s success in receiving international recognition,including the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award at the ASEAN TourismAwards 2024 and 2026,” he added.