PUTRAJAYA, Nov 3 (Bernama)— The effectiveness of the Community-Based Eco Recycling Hub (COB3R) in Precinct 9 here will be evaluated before the concept is considered for expansion to other areas within the Federal Territories.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the facility will serve as a pilot project to assess the effectiveness of its implementation and identify necessary improvements prior to any potential expansion.
“The hub functions not only as a recycling facility but also as a community space and educational centre, designed to encourage resident participation in environmental-related activities,” she told reporters after officiating COB3R in Precinct 9 here today.
Hannah noted that the management of the facility will involve the Residents’ Representative Council (MPP) in collaboration with Putrajaya Corporation, to ensure the facility remains in active use and does not fall into neglect.
She added that the hub’s location within the residential area makes it convenient for residents to engage in recycling activities without having to travel far.
However, she cautioned that monitoring is essential to prevent the facility from being misused as a general waste dumping site or a storage area for discarded items.
Hannah also highlighted the need to increase the involvement of senior citizens in these activities, noting that recycling offers them opportunities to acquire new skills and potentially generate income by creating products from repurposed materials.
In a related development, she emphasised that fostering a culture of recycling cannot rely solely on awareness campaigns; it must be supported by enforcement to ensure a genuine shift in public habits.
She said residents should also understand the rising costs of solid waste management borne by local authorities, given that such expenditures ultimately involve public funds.
COB3R Phase 1, developed at a cost of approximately RM900,000 and spanning 232 square metres, focuses on recycling education, skills sharing, and the creation of products from repurposed materials.
In 2025, Putrajaya recorded the collection of over 8.6 million kilogrammes of recyclable materials, an increase of nearly 840,000 kilogrammes compared to the previous year, though the recycling rate remained at 22 per cent for both years.
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