Malaysia launches circular economy blueprint, advancing solid waste management. (Photo: iStock)
The Malaysian government has unveiled its first Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste (2025-2035), which forecasts the implementation of measures such as "Extended Producer Responsibility," "Pay-As-You-Throw," and "Zero Waste to Landfill Certification." The government plans to enforce these requirements through legislation and intends to increase the number of waste-to-energy plants. Additionally, they aim to support the formation of a circular economy association to help achieve a national recycling rate of 40% by 2025.
Malaysia tackles solid waste with a 10-year plan to promote circular economy
On August 6, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) held a press conference outlining a 10-year policy direction for solid waste management. The plan includes five main strategies and 20 initiatives, covering the entire supply chain from product production to disposal. The minister, Nga Kor Ming, stated, "To develop a circular economy, we must take immediate and strict actions to address pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change."
The "Extended Producer Responsibility" (EPR) regulation will require manufacturers to take responsibility for recycling and reusing waste generated by their products. Companies that excel in energy efficiency and waste reduction will receive a "Zero Waste to Landfill Certification," which will also determine their eligibility for subsidies.
To reduce waste generation, the authorities plan to introduce a "Pay-As-You-Throw" system, starting with the commercial, manufacturing, and construction sectors, charging based on the amount of waste disposed.
To reduce waste generation, the Malaysian authorities plan to introduce a "Pay-As-You-Throw" system. (Photo: Pexels)
With landfill sites nearing capacity, KPKT is considering expanding waste-to-energy facilities
Currently, Malaysia has only one such plant compared to 700 in China and five in Singapore. Studies suggest Malaysia has the potential to operate up to 18 WTE plants economically and environmentally, though further comparisons with other countries are needed before finalizing expansion plans.
Nga Kor Ming revealed that the government has already begun discussions with major retailers such as 7-11, 99 Speedmart, and Mynews.com to communicate policy details and plans.
The official statement indicates that Malaysians generate approximately 39,000 tons of solid waste daily. Given the high volume of waste, closing a fully loaded landfill site would cost about 20 million Malaysian Ringgit (about 4.7 million USD). Therefore, the government is considering expanding waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities.
Nga Kor Ming pointed out that China has 700 waste-to-energy plants and Singapore has 5. In comparison, Malaysia has only 1. Studies suggest that Malaysia has the potential to economically and environmentally support up to 18 WTE plants. However, further comparisons with other countries are needed before deciding whether to expand the number of new plants.
