Ipoh, a city in northwestern Malaysia will soon become the pioneer in Asia by utilizing eco-friendly technology to process all of its waste. The announcement from Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin has set the city on a path to become the frontrunner in Asia for implementing 100% eco-friendly waste treatment.

According to him, the innovation involves a sterilization and cleaning procedure that applies heat, steam, and pressure to solid waste, eliminating the need for prior segregation. After undergoing a 30-minute processing period, the waste is separated into four distinct categories: biomass, plastic, metal, and inert materials.

The significance of this development extends beyond waste management alone. By successfully processing and segregating the waste, the project aims to unlock the potential value inherent in these materials. The basic commodities will be sold in the market to make sure the waste material is not totally wasted and is reusable in different forms. As reported in Bernama, Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin gave the example that solid waste that has been converted into biomass can be sold as a fuel substitute for coal in industrial applications.

He also highlighted the drawbacks of conventional landfill practices, stating that they occupy large areas of land, rendering the land unproductive. This approach aims to address these concerns while prioritizing a sustainable and efficient way to manage waste.

A collaborative effort has also been initiated between Thermowaste Mancuso Energy Sdn Bhd, Ipoh City Council (MBI), and Selekta Spektra through a memorandum of understanding signed on October 17, marking a significant milestone in the city’s journey to achieving environmental sustainability and a brighter future.