Kota Kinabalu: The Local Government and Housing Ministry (KKTP) clarified that the ultimate responsibility for rubbish collection in Sabah lies with local authorities.
KKTP Minister Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif stressed that keeping the State’s towns and districts clean requires full cooperation from all parties, including elected representatives and the community.
He was responding to concerns raised by several assemblymen over persistent waste management issues in key areas.
Responding to Sulabayan Assemblyman Datuk Jaujan Sambakong’s question on who is accountable for rubbish collection in local authority areas, Arifin said cleanliness should never be seen as the duty of a single party.
“On the issue of rubbish, we must work together to ensure cleanliness,” he said, adding that leadership by example was equally critical.
He also addressed concerns from Senallang Assemblyman Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, who revealed he personally funded clean-up programmes in Semporna – a major tourist destination driving local income – despite local authorities being allocated funds, manpower and equipment for the task.
In a nod to the urgency of the matter, Arifin acknowledged, “It should be my Ministry’s responsibility. Thank you,” signalling KKTP’s oversight role in ensuring services are delivered effectively.
Silam Assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal raised similar issues in Lahad Datu, noting the district received less attention than Semporna despite facing the same problems.
He said a concession company had been appointed to collect rubbish three times a week, but questioned why the service remained ineffective despite payments being made.
Arifin reiterated: “On the issue of rubbish, it is the role of the local authorities, and we as leaders must help and set a good example.”
The Minister emphasised that efficient solid waste management is a key pillar in protecting public wellbeing and environmental sustainability for Sabah, a State rich in biodiversity.
“Failure to manage solid waste systematically can have long-term impacts on ecosystems, public health and the image of the state,” he said, adding that it reflects the maturity of governance and efficiency of public services.
To address the challenges, KKTP outlined several initiatives, including the construction of new landfill sites in Semporna and Paitan (Beluran), new landfill cells in Keningau and Tawau, upgrading works at Kg Langkawit landfill in Papar, a transfer station in Beaufort and improvements to landfill facilities in Kudat.
Sabah is also moving towards modern waste management through the 3R-based (Recover, Rehabilitate, Reuse) IGNIS 3R technology – proven successful in Johor Baru and Terengganu.
The technology focuses on rehabilitating existing landfills in phases instead of opening new ones, reducing pollution and improving public health.
It is being rolled out as a strategic pilot project at the Sungai Sibuga landfill in Sandakan and Kg Langkawit in Papar, subject to full regulatory compliance.
Arifin concluded that KKTP remains committed to strengthening all agencies under its purview to deliver holistic, sustainable and people-oriented waste management across the State.
