KOTA BELUD: The Kampung Kiau Nuluh Community Composting Centre has added value to rural economic and entrepreneurial activities in the area, said Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick.
Ewon, who is also the Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, said the centre, developed by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), deserves recognition not only for promoting sustainable waste management but also for its potential to empower the local community’s economy.
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Referring to UMS’ “Brain of Borneo” initiative, he said the effort is expected to provide added value to village-based economic and entrepreneurial activities, and expressed hope that more entrepreneurs would develop the potential of their villages and expand their ventures to other areas.
He was speaking at the opening of the centre at Kampung Kiau Nuluh, here, last Saturday.
Ewon, who is also the Kadamaian Assemblyman, said the initiative demonstrated how pineapple processing waste, once considered useless, can be transformed into organic fertilizer through composting.
He said the approach not only reduces waste problems but also supports the sustainability of the local agricultural sector.
“This community composting initiative reflects circular economy practices at the grassroots level, where local resources are optimally utilised to add value to the community,” he said.
Ewon hoped that the composting site would be fully utilised and sustainably managed by the local residents, becoming a model of a sustainable community and an inspiration to other villages across the state.
Meanwhile, UMS Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Hj Mansor said the project was implemented through the UniMadani Grant under the Community Empowerment Programme, which highlights the role of public universities as partners in community development.
His speech was delivered by Professor Dr Coswald Stephen Sipaut @ Mohd Nasri, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network) and Director of the Centre for Industry Collaboration and Engagement.
“Universities are not only centres of learning and research but also engage directly with communities by sharing expertise and technology to help improve quality of life and strengthen local economies,” he said.
The UniMadani programme at UMS is coordinated by the Centre for Community Engagement Sustainability, with the project led by the Faculty of Engineering.
The project, titled Composting as a Source of Community Income in Kampung Kiau, utilises organic waste from pineapple processing activities carried out in the village.
