Introduction
In line with the enforcement of ‘Separation at Source (SAS)’, SWCorp has implemented an initiative in selected residential areas called the Zero Waste Community (KOSIS) programme. This programme facilitates and assists PPR communities in conducting food waste treatment and converting recyclable materials into cash.
In addition, the KOSIS programme helps increase community involvement in environmental cleanliness awareness activities and promotes a recycling culture in their daily lives. The KOSIS programme also supports the Government’s efforts to boost the income of those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic by collecting and selling recyclable materials.
The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has also adopted the KOSIS programme as an official initiative under the National Community Policy (DKom) to meet the needs and desires of the community and government. Starting 2020, 17 KOSIS centres have been operating in line with the opening of the Secretariat for Community Consensus (SMK) offices under the Community Well-being Division of KPKT.
The implementation of the National Community Policy focuses on eight key areas or clusters. These eight clusters represent groups of key factors towards changing the mindset and attitude of the community in a residential locality, particularly in strata property. The operation of the KOSIS programme falls under the second cluster, which covers cleanliness, environment and health.
KOSIS also promotes health and empowers a healthy lifestyle under the National Health Agenda (ANMS), focusing on Environmental Cleanliness under Core 4: Boosting Environmental Cleanliness, coordinated by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM). Cultivating a culture of environmental cleanliness, especially for the PPR community, is continually emphasised through various activities planned at KOSIS centres.
The programme has received support from the Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister’s Department (EPU, JPM), through funding under the Second and Third Rolling Plans of the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12). These plans highlight strategic principles based on shared prosperity initiatives covering three dimensions: economic reconstruction, the implementation of an inclusive social system and an emphasis on sustainable development. Existing KOSIS centres have been improved to ensure that the implementation of the KOSIS programme meets the community’s needs.
The implementation of the KOSIS programme has resulted in cleaner living areas and reduced amounts of solid waste being sent to landfills. Residents have reported that the waste separation programme has reduced the unpleasant odour caused by food waste. Less waste is discarded in bins as residents now understand that it is of value when sent to KOSIS centres. The programme has informed the community on how to manage waste at source, reduce waste generation at landfills while creating awareness about the value of waste in generating income.
Objectives
• The KOSIS programme aims to educate communities on separating solid waste, help improve the economy of B40 families, foster a culture of valuing waste as a resource and reduce the amount of solid waste sent to landfills.
• The KOSIS programme is also part of the strategy to promote a cleanliness culture (Strategy 1.1, Cluster 1 – Cleanliness Awareness in the National Cleanliness Policy 2020-2030).
List of Operating KOSIS Centers
