Malaysia received the Global Zero Waste Special Citation Award at the Global Zero Waste Forum 2025, recognising its commitment to circular economy principles and sustainable waste management.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, who also serves as President of the UN-Habitat Assembly, said the recognition reflects sustained efforts to transform urban waste management, promote environmental stewardship and foster innovations for sustainable cities.
“I pledge that my team and I will forge a sincere and meaningful partnership with the Zero Waste Foundation as mandated by the UN,” he said.
“Together, we will elevate these principles at the United Nations, across Asia-Pacific and within ASEAN.” The award was presented by Emine Erdoğan, First Lady of Türkiye and patron of the Zero Waste Foundation, on Sunday (Oct 20).
Nga said Malaysia received the highest honour among four categories, the others being Innovative Research and Design, Zero Waste Projects and Zero Waste Practices, underscoring the need for stronger multilateral action that prioritises reuse and recycling.
He cited initiatives such as nationwide recycling centres and the “Trash to Cash” programme, the Circular Economy Blueprint 2025–2035 (with EPR, digital waste tracking and green tech hubs), the conversion of old landfills into Lestari Parks, and Kuala Lumpur’s AI-powered transfer station processing about 2,500 tonnes of waste daily.
