Curbing the amount of solid waste we generate and improving our ability to collect them and then dispose of them rationally are major challenges for a modern state. Malaysia’s political culture of centralised solutions may be more a hindrance than a help.
Whilst the words "green" and "sustainable" have been gaining popularity in both the public and private sectors in Malaysia, it is worrying that problems associated with solid waste have intensified. No doubt, the management of solid waste over the years has always left much to be desired. Piles of rubbish strewn across open sites, irregular waste collection and dirty garbage trucks chugging along our roads are part of our national landscape.
