Its general manager Ahadi Mohd Nasir said Malaysia is facing significant waste management challenge as a result of the rapid increase of urbanisation and population.

SHAH ALAM - As Malaysia grapples with mounting waste management crisis, KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) emerges as a trailblazer in transforming waste into renewable resources.

Its general manager Ahadi Mohd Nasir said Malaysia was facing a significant waste management challenge as a result of the rapid increase of urbanisation and population.

"Generating a staggering 7,000 tonnes of waste daily, KDEBWM's commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction is taking centre stage.

"In a bid to support the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), KDEBWM is steering towards waste-to-energy solutions, epitomising how innovative waste management practices can lead the charge in reducing Malaysia's carbon footprint,” he said in a statement.

Addressing the challenges in this revolution, Ahadi said rapid urbanisation and population growth in Malaysia have contributed to a daily solid waste generation of 38,427 metric tonnes, a number projected to surge to 49,670 tonnes by 2030.

In the face of this mounting waste crisis, KDEBWM, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Selangor government, stood out not only for managing an impressive volume of waste but also for its resolute commitment to sustainability.

NETR which was launched on July 27, last year, is Malaysia's strategic initiative to achieve a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050.

"It places strategic emphasis on managing Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), recognising its potential as a bioenergy source.

"KDEBWM's alignment with NETR reflects its dedication to a low-carbon future,” he added.

Ahadi also highlighted that KDEBWM played a pivotal role in Selangor's waste management sector, servicing 6.5 million residents and two million taxpayers.

"With a mission to ensure cleanliness, public health and sustainability, the organisation operates a substantial fleet, collaborates with subcontractors and manages recycling centres that divert recyclables from landfills.

"Founded in 1996, KDEBWM envisions becoming a leading waste management company dedicated to a cleaner and healthier Selangor.

"Leveraging technology and community engagement, KDEBWM aims to create an environmentally friendly region, actively contributing to Selangor's sustainable development,” Ahadi said.

He also said that in line with NETR's objectives, KDEBWM was making strides in waste-to-energy (WTE) solutions to address increasing waste quantities and diminishing landfill space.

The organisation, in collaboration with YTL Power International Bhd, was embarking on the Sultan Idris Shah Green Energy Plant, a 2,400-tonne-per-day WTE facility in Rawang, Selangor, as part of the Selangor Green Energy Eco Park project.

"WTE technology adopted by KDEBWM plays a pivotal role in mitigating carbon emissions associated with traditional waste disposal methods.

"By efficiently converting MSW into renewable energy, the technology significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lessens reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to resource conservation," he added.

While acknowledging public concerns about WTE technology, Ahadi said that KDEBWM emphasised its safety and adherence to stringent environmental protocols.

"By showcasing global success stories and expert insights, the organisation aims to change public perceptions and foster acceptance of WTE methods as essential tools in achieving NETR's objectives.

"As waste management becomes an integral part of Malaysia's journey towards a sustainable, low-carbon future, KDEBWM stands at the forefront, turning waste bins into sources of renewable energy and actively contributing to a cleaner, greener Malaysia," he said.