Eko-Bernama Challenge Collects Nearly 1.8 Tonnes Of Recyclable Items

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 (Bernama) — The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) has successfully collected nearly 1.8 tonnes of recyclable items through its inaugural “Eko-Bernama Challenge” programme held at Wisma Bernama today.

Organised by Bernama’s Corporate Affairs Division in collaboration with the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ), the programme adopted the “Trash to Cash” concept and saw the participation of about 50 Bernama employees, who collected various items, including paper, plastic, scrap metal and used cooking oil over the past two weeks.

Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin said the programme was primarily aimed at educating employees and raising their awareness of recycling practices, in line with the government’s environmental sustainability initiatives.

“It may be a small step that begins at home, but when we publicised this programme two weeks ago, they started collecting old newspapers, scrap metal and used oil to bring here.

“Insya-Allah, if the response is encouraging, we will certainly continue. Bernama management will consider introducing an improved programme, possibly through broader collaboration at the ministry level in the future,” she told reporters on the sidelines of the programme.

Meanwhile, MPAJ said the implementation of the Trash to Cash programme could not only reduce the amount of solid waste sent to landfills but also generate economic value from used items, while supporting efforts to strengthen the circular economy and reduce environmental pollution.

“This initiative aims to increase public participation, particularly in practising waste separation at home and making use of the recycling facilities provided,” the council said in a statement.

Meanwhile, programme participant Akmal Hakim from Bernama’s Digital Library Division said environmental protection required cooperation from all parties.

“If there are recyclable items at home, it is best to sort, collect and sell them. At the very least, this can provide a little extra income while helping to keep the environment clean,” he said.

-- BERNAMA