SWCorp Launches Major Public Cleansing Reform With High-tech Electric Machinery

MELAKA, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) is set to modernise public cleansing through high-tech machinery in a major reform push, starting next year.

Its chief executive officer, Khalid Mohamed, said the reforms, which include technology from developed nations such as China, will be introduced in phases under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to boost efficiency in the sector. 

As part of the initiative, SWM Environment Sdn Bhd workers in Melaka are already piloting the use of electric three-wheeled motorcycles for cleaning tasks.

“We are preparing a detailed proposal for discussion with the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) and the Finance Ministry, as this involves a major policy decision.

“The reforms will bring significant long-term returns to public cleansing operations while enhancing the quality and efficiency of services provided,” he told reporters after launching electric cleaning machinery and the No Dust operation in Banda Hilir last night. 

Also present at the launch was SWM Environment corporate general manager Mohd Norlisam Mohd Nordin.

Khalid said the electric vehicles, comprising three-wheeled motorcycles and a mini compactor, will help reduce air pollution, cut fuel costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

He added that under the 13MP, SWCorp also plans to expand solid waste collection and public cleansing services to rural areas, particularly villages across seven states under its supervision, including Melaka, Negeri Sembilan and Johor.

“We are drawing up plans and discussing the methods with state governments and local authorities, while identifying the villages involved.

“Previously, SWM Environment’s services focused mainly on urban areas, but this expansion will ensure more effective waste management and help reduce pollution, as many villagers still dispose of waste on their own, often by burning it,” he said.

So far, Kampung Pulau in Melaka has been chosen as the pilot project for the waste collection services by SWM Environment.

-- BERNAMA