Kota Kinabalu: Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong, praised the community-led environmental initiative by RIPPLE – Sabah Recycling Association, operating near the Luyang Multi-Purpose Hall.
In his press statement, Samuel described RIPPLE as a community learning and innovation hub rather than a conventional recycling centre, focusing on waste education, upcycling and circular-economy practices.
“Through hands-on activities, volunteer engagement and collaborations, RIPPLE empowers communities to see waste not as a burden, but as a resource that can be transformed into environmental and social value,” he said.
Samuel revealed that the initiative is currently producing a range of upcycled products, including coasters, keychains, jewellery beads and furniture, made from recyclable materials collected through community participation.
“These products are targeted mainly at corporate giftings and tourism markets through collaborative partners. Importantly, all proceeds from sales are channelled back into sustaining the initiative and supporting ongoing community programmes,” he explained.
At present, RIPPLE is conducting a volunteer-driven campaign to clear accumulated recyclable backlogs, while planning to introduce periodic public awareness programmes and scheduled collection campaigns for residents.
Samuel said initiatives like this not only help reduce waste sent to landfills, but also create learning opportunities and potential livelihood pathways, particularly for youth and community members interested in creative upcycling.
However, he acknowledged that the initiative currently faces challenges, especially in terms of limited manpower and volunteer support, which restricts its ability to expand production and outreach activities.
“This is where community participation becomes crucial. With more volunteers and partners, RIPPLE can scale up its impact and reach more residents,” he said.
He called on government agencies, corporates, educational institutions and the public to come forward and support community-based environmental initiatives through collaboration, volunteering and skills-sharing.
“A cleaner and more resilient Luyang requires collective effort. Small actions, when done consistently together, can lead to meaningful and lasting change,” he added.
