AdminMondelēz International has successfully concluded its 2024 Trash Right recycling program, engaging over 4,000 students aged 10 to 12 from six Klang Valley schools in an impactful sustainability initiative. The program, which culminated on 30 November, resulted in a remarkable collection of nearly 14 metric tons of plastics diverted for recycling and reinforcing the importance of instilling lifelong recycling habits in students.
Over the course of six months, students participated in friendly inter-class and inter-school competitions to collect plastic waste, with their efforts tracked on a real-time leaderboard. To enrich their learning experience, Mondelēz International employees and partners hosted interactive workshops, providing hands-on guidance on plastic segregation and recycling. These activities empowered students to adopt sustainable practices both at school and at home, while strengthening community ties through the involvement of parents, teachers, and local communities.
Education leaders support closing ceremony
The closing ceremony for 2024 was graced by representatives from each of the six schools and the program’s strategic partners, as well as Tuan Haji Yusaini bin Salleh, Deputy Director for Student Development, Selangor State Education Department; Encik Khairul Anuar bin Abdul Azid, Assistant Director (Co-curriculum), Student Talent Development Unit, Student Development Sector, Selangor State Education Department; and Puan Haniza binti Mohd Jabar @ Ibrahim, District Education Officer from the Petaling Utama District Education Office (PPD).
Puan Norbaiti binti Ramli, Headmistress of SK Bandar Utama Damansara 4, who clinched first prize at this year’s competition, together with Encik Izham Hishammudin, the Programme Coordinator Teacher, shared, “The Trash Right program has played a pivotal role in raising awareness within our school community about the importance of cleanliness. Now in its second year at SK Bandar Utama Damansara 4, the program has effectively engaged students, parents, and the PIBG to promote a cleaner, greener environment. Through our continuous efforts, we are instilling a sense of responsibility and pride in maintaining a clean school.”
Puan Siti Arfifah binti Jais, the Program Coordinator Teacher at SK Tropicana, which won second place, said, “This initiative has been a valuable extension of our science lessons, offering students a hands-on, interactive way to learn about recycling. Through competitions and real-time tracking, it has transformed an important environmental lesson into a fun, engaging experience. Students are not only mastering the practical aspects of plastic segregation, but they’re also gaining a deeper understanding of the broader impact of their actions. It has empowered them to take responsibility for sustainability, fostering teamwork and a commitment to making a difference in their communities.”
Partnerships boost sustainability efforts
The program’s success was further enhanced by partnerships with PINTAR Foundation, Trash4Cash, and Lotus’s, which ensured the responsible management of collected plastics. The recyclables were repurposed into eco-boards, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional lumber and contributing to the circular economy.
Looking ahead, Mondelēz International plans to expand the program in 2025, doubling the number of participating schools and aiming to create an even greater environmental impact. The next phase, set to launch early this year, will continue to inspire young leaders to address plastic waste and promote sustainability in their communities.
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