logo
Pesticide Container Recycling Programme launched at oil palm plantations

Pesticide Container Recycling Programme launched at oil palm plantations

The Sun2 days ago

LAHAD DATU: The Pesticide Container Recycling Programme introduced at oil palm plantations here is aimed at ensuring the systematic and safe disposal of used pesticide containers.
Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal said the initiative, which involves the construction of dedicated recycling cages, is being implemented at seven plantation sites here.
He said Sabah is among the states with the highest usage of pesticides in the country, making it crucial to adopt disposal methods that comply with established environmental guidelines.
'The installation of these recycling cages at strategic locations will make it easier for smallholders to dispose of containers safely,' he said when launching the programme at Rimmer Estate here today.
Mohammad Yusof said that used pesticide containers are classified as Scheduled Waste under code SW409 and must be disposed of at licensed facilities under the Department of Environment.
He also noted that seven plantation companies have contributed RM3,000 each for the construction of the recycling cages at the identified sites.
Meanwhile, KL-Kepong (Sabah) Sdn Bhd Lahad Datu Division general manager Saparuddin Rabayani said the estate was chosen to host the programme in recognition of the company's strong track record in implementing recycling practices.
'KL-Kepong has effectively embraced recycling initiatives on a significant scale, making this estate a leading example for other plantation companies,' he said.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Ampang Jaya pocket park to benefit six neighbourhoods
Ampang Jaya pocket park to benefit six neighbourhoods

The Star

time8 hours ago

  • The Star

Ampang Jaya pocket park to benefit six neighbourhoods

The new recreational park in Taman Cahaya features a children's playset and jogging track. A NEW recreational park in Taman Cahaya, Ampang Jaya in Selangor, has received approval from its surrounding community. The park on Jalan Cahaya 12 was constructed by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) with a RM500,000 Housing and Local Government Ministry allocation. A resident of the nearby Bella Vista apartments, KC Tan, said it was a good decision to have a park just next to the property. 'There aren't many open spa­ces where people can gather and relax in this area, so this park is a welcomed addition,' said Tan who has lived in Bella Vista for over a decade. The new park features a children's playset and jogging track. A Taman Cahaya resident, who only wanted to be known as Sabariah, said while she welcomed the park, more seating was needed. 'There is plenty of open space and walking paths, but not enough places to sit, especially for senior citizens like me.' Sabariah, who has been visiting the park daily with her grandchildren since it opened, said benches and shaded seating would make it more comfortable and accessible to all age groups. MPAJ Zone 8 councillor Datuk Yap Wee Seng said residents from at least six neighbourhoods could enjoy the park facilities. They include Taman Cahaya, Taman Dagang, Taman Cahaya Indah, Taman Cempaka, Taman Nir­wana and Kampung Baru Am­­pang. 'There is a lack of public parks in these mature areas. 'Finding spaces where a new green space could be built was difficult,' said Yap. 'This site used to be idle land as it was also near high-tension cables,' he said, recalling that residents had suggested it be turned into a park. He said MPAJ managed to complete construction of the almost 1ha park in six months. 'Hopefully, we will be able to identify more spaces that can be turned into pocket parks,' he added. In a media statement, MPAJ said the construction of the park was part of its ongoing efforts to enhance community infrastructure and improve access to recreational and leisure facilities within its jurisdiction. It also reaffirmed its commitment to providing comfortable, community friendly public spa­ces that promoted a healthy life­­­­style for all. Bukit Antarabangsa assemblyman Mohd Kamri Kama­ruddin, who is also Selangor Deputy Speaker, MPAJ deputy president Hasrol­nizam Shaari and Youth, Commu­nity and Landscape Department director Mohamad Yusuf Sulai­man visited the park.

Kpg Rayu Iban to get Community Fire Unit, KRT for safety and unity
Kpg Rayu Iban to get Community Fire Unit, KRT for safety and unity

Borneo Post

time18 hours ago

  • Borneo Post

Kpg Rayu Iban to get Community Fire Unit, KRT for safety and unity

Fatimah says the initiative to set up the Community Fire Unit is crucial as the nearest fire station is located far from the village, which poses difficulties to rapid response in the event of a fire. KUCHING (June 18): A Community Fire Unit and neighborhood watch area (KRT) will be established in Kampung Rayu Iban, Lundu as part of efforts to strengthen safety and promote community unity, said Sarawak Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah. She said the initiative to set up the Community Fire Unit is crucial as the nearest fire station is located far from the village, which poses difficulties to rapid response in the event of a fire. 'This matter has been discussed in previous meetings, and today I was informed that the Fire and Rescue Department will work with the village chief to make the Community Fire Unit in Kampung Rayu a reality,' she said during the closing ceremony of the KPWK Gawai Dayak and Raya Outreach programme with strategic partners at the Kampung Rayu Iban longhouse in Lundu today. Fatimah added that the establishment of the unit is critical, as longhouses are at high risk of fire due to their connected structures, where one door links to the next. 'If one unit catches fire, the entire longhouse could be destroyed in the blink of an eye. 'That is why the community must be trained and prepared to act as the first responders while waiting for the fire brigade to arrive,' she said. She also noted that the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) had given a fire prevention briefing to residents as an initial step to raise awareness and enhance community preparedness. In addition, Fatimah said the Department of National Unity and Integration has been requested to look into the formation of a KRT in the village. 'I was informed this morning that efforts to set up the KRT can begin and be further discussed in detail. This is important for implementing unity and safety programmes in an organised manner,' she said. She explained that officially registered KRTs would receive an annual allocation of RM6,000 to carry out various community programmes. 'This not only strengthens unity but also opens up opportunities for structured grassroots social development activities,' she added. Meanwhile, more than 1,000 residents of Kampung Rayu Iban longhouse benefited from the two-day KPWK Gawai Dayak and Raya Outreach programme, which was carried out in collaboration with strategic partners. The programme aimed to bring government services and information directly to rural communities, especially those with limited access or awareness. Among the services offered were applications for aid schemes, free health screenings, entrepreneurship and leadership seminars, and advisory counters from various government agencies. Fatimah said the initiative reflects the Sarawak government's commitment to inclusivity under the leadership of Sarawak Premier, ensuring no one is left behind in the state's development. Also present were Deputy State Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam; the ministry's Permanent Secretary Datu Felicia Tan Ya Hua; Tanjong Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan; and Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor.

Recycling of pesticide containers a vital step: Yusof
Recycling of pesticide containers a vital step: Yusof

Daily Express

timea day ago

  • Daily Express

Recycling of pesticide containers a vital step: Yusof

Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 18, 2025 By: Azmie Lim Text Size: Yusof (3rd from right) at the launch of the programme. LAHAD DATU: A recycling initiative involving the collection and processing of pesticide containers is seen as a vital step in promoting sustainable practices and protecting the environment within the oil palm industry. Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) Datuk Mohd Yusof Apdal, said the programme aligns with the national agenda to strengthen environmental sustainability. Advertisement 'With Sabah recording one of the highest pesticide container entries in the country, urgent and proper disposal in accordance with regulations is crucial,' he said. He commended the Sabah Agriculture Department and participating oil palm companies in the district for embracing the initiative, saying their support ensures continued environmental preservation. Yusof was speaking during the Recycling Programme for Pesticide Containers in the Oil Palm Industry held at Rimmer Estate, KLK Berhad on Tuesday, jointly organised by the Pesticide Control Division, Agriculture Department, with state agencies and plantation companies. He welcomed a proposal by the Sabah Pesticide Control Division to develop high-tech protective gear for farmers handling pesticides, saying it fits Mosti's mission to boost local innovation for safety and productivity. He also suggested a long-term study to assess farmers' awareness of the dangers posed by improper disposal of pesticide containers. A two-year study by Universiti Malaysia Sabah had earlier examined pesticide container management among farmers using both qualitative and quantitative methods, including document reviews, interviews and surveys. 'The findings will help shape a farmer-centric recycling framework and raise awareness of safe pesticide container disposal,' he said. Yusof also praised the contribution of pesticide container recycling cages by seven oil palm firms, calling it a strong show of private sector commitment to national sustainability goals. He said such public-private partnerships could drive meaningful environmental and community impact. Meanwhile, Acting Director of the Pesticide and Fertiliser Control Division Latifah Merais, said the programme is key in strengthening sustainable agricultural practices, especially in managing hazardous chemical waste like used pesticide containers. She said a major objective of the programme is to ensure systematic and safe disposal of pesticide containers while reducing health risks and environmental pollution. 'Recent data shows rising pesticide imports into Sabah's ports,' she said. In 2023, Tawau received 6,377 tonnes and Sandakan 5,124 tonnes. This increased in 2024 to 11,308 tonnes (Tawau), 2,614 tonnes (Sandakan) and 853 tonnes (Kota Kinabalu). 'These figures highlight the growing need for responsible management of used pesticide containers,' she said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store