Sagah: Turn waste into economic opportunities

SERIAN: Sarawak must move beyond simply disposing of waste and explore ways to turn discarded materials into valuable resources that can generate new economic opportunities.

Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said adopting a circular economy approach could encourage innovation, support local businesses and create employment opportunities while protecting the environment.

He said materials commonly regarded as useless could still be reused or transformed into products with economic value.

“When you look at waste, think that it is money. Think of its value,” he said when officiating at the closing ceremony of InnoWaste MPHLG 2026 at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Hall here today (Oct 27).

Sagah speaks at the event.

Sagah said the circular economy did not necessarily require large factories or expensive machinery, as it could begin with simple practices at home, in schools and among businesses.

He noted that waste management and the circular economy have been identified as development priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan for Sarawak (2026–2030).

The Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint 2030 also emphasise environmental sustainability and responsible resource utilisation.

Meanwhile, Sagah encouraged young innovators to continue developing their ideas beyond competitions, particularly through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

He said STEM education could equip students with the knowledge to develop practical solutions for waste management and transform discarded materials into useful products.

“That is why we encourage you to take up STEM in school. From science, we learn how to treat waste and reinvent it into something more useful.

“That is being innovative,” he said.

He also urged teachers, parents and educational institutions to nurture curiosity and creativity among students, stressing that unsuccessful attempts could provide valuable learning experiences.

Sagah further called on community leaders, businesses and local authorities to encourage recycling, reduce waste generation and promote responsible disposal practices.

He expressed hope that InnoWaste would strengthen collaboration among schools, higher education institutions, industries and local communities in developing practical environmental innovations.

The two-day programme was jointly organised by the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG) and Serian District Council in conjunction with Sarawak Public Service Innovation Month 2026.