Etika Powers Community-Led Waste Management in Semporna

Etika Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia (RCM) and supported by the Malaysian Recycling Alliance (MAREA), has announced the launch of the Semporna Waste Management Program — a pilot initiative to establish a functioning community-based waste management system in Kg Sri Aman, Semporna.

The programme addresses a longstanding issue in Semporna, where poor waste management and plastic pollution have impacted both local communities and marine ecosystems. The Kg Sri Aman Waste Management Project aims to create a structured and sustainable model that can be replicated in other coastal areas.

As part of this programme, Etika will provide end-to-end support — from waste audits and infrastructure setup to community training and engagement — working in partnership with Reef Check Malaysia and supported by MAREA to drive long-term sustainability within the community.

Santharuban Thurai Sundram, Chief Executive Officer of Etika Group of Companies, said “Through this collaboration, we aim to support an effective and practical solution to a real community challenge. Sustainability efforts must include the people most affected, and this project provides an opportunity for us to work directly with local stakeholders to create meaningful, long-term impact.”

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah (KePKAS) welcomes this programme by Etika as a positive step towards strengthening the State’s sustainable development efforts.

“Beyond addressing waste management challenges, it directly supports the preservation of the natural beauty and biodiversity that make Sabah a world-renowned tourism destination. By equipping the community of Kg Sri Aman with the skills and infrastructure to manage their environment responsibly, we are not only protecting our marine ecosystems but also empowering local residents to take ownership of their surroundings. This partnership lays a strong foundation for future eco-tourism and conservation-led initiatives across the State.”

By the end of 2028, the project aims for all 99 households in Kg. Sri Aman to be equipped with waste bins, with at least 90% of them actively participating in waste segregation. Over time, the programme targets to divert more than 10,000 kilograms of waste from the environment by 2028.

Adzmin Fatta, Programme Manager of Reef Check Malaysia highlighted the project as a key step in promoting sustainable waste management and community-led solutions “The Kg Sri Aman project highlights the importance of structured waste management policies and community-based implementation. By piloting a practical system at the local level, it provides a model that can inform government strategies, support regulatory frameworks, and guide future programmes in other communities facing similar challenges.”

Beyond environmental benefits, the programme will also create employment opportunities for villagers, who will be engaged as waste collectors and coordinators. Recyclable materials will be sent to an aggregator for recycling, and profits generated will be reinvested into community waste and recycling initiatives.

Engagement with key government stakeholders — including the Semporna District Council (MDS), District Office, and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah (KePKAS) — will ensure alignment with local development plans and future scalability to other communities in Sabah.

Together, Etika, Reef Check Malaysia, and MAREA aim to strengthen local waste management capacity while contributing to Malaysia’s broader environmental sustainability goals.