Kota Kinabalu: As the estimated 10,000 runners crossed the finish line at the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon 2026 at Likas Stadium, Sunday, the Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) Sabah Branch ensured that the only things left behind were personal bests and memories.
Through its “Don’t Be a Litter Bug” campaign, MPMA Sabah successfully managed the race’s environmental footprint, ensuring zero plastic bottles and general waste remained on the course.
To tackle the logistical challenge of the international event, MPMA Sabah deployed a strategic waste management system.
General waste and dedicated recycling bins were placed at key intervals along the marathon route, encouraging runners and spectators to separate waste at the source.
By providing clear disposal options, the association ensured that plastic bottles and other recyclables were diverted from landfills and kept out of the natural environment.
The campaign’s hub was a specialised Recycling Station established near the finish line.
A live demonstration captivated the crowd, showing the circular economy in action by transforming bottle caps into recycled keychains.
All waste collected are sorted at the recycling station.
Bottles and other recyclables are prepared, ready to be sent to a specialised recycling centre where the bottles will undergo yet another process turning them into recycled bottles.
MPMA Sabah chairman, Liaw Hen Kong, who led the campaign stressed the initiative highlights the power of plastic circularity.
“Rather than traditional waste disposal, MPMA Sabah is promoting bottle-to-bottle recycling, a process where every bottle collected from the race is diverted from the landfill to become a new, fully functional recycled bottle” he said.
The campaign successfully collected an estimated 888 kg of bottles, involving about 80 members or volunteers.
This initiative was made possible through the combined efforts of MPMA Sabah members and local partners committed to sustainability.
Key participants included Life Water Berhad, Lok Kawi Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd, Uniang Plastic Industries Sabah Sdn Bhd and HKT Furniture Sdn Bhd.
