Kota Kinabalu: Some 500kg of consumer plastic waste was collected during the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon 2025, thanks to a green initiative led by the Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) Sabah branch.
Held last Sunday (May 5) at the Likas Sports Complex, the annual international charity event attracted around 8,000 runners participating in the 42km, 21km, and 10km categories.
As part of its “Don’t Be A Litterbug” campaign, the MPMA Sabah Branch mobilised 70 volunteers from its member companies to collect used plastic beverage bottles and other waste along the marathon routes.
“This year, we managed to collect 500kg of plastic bottles and non-recyclable waste like paper and wrappers.
“All bottles were sent to a recycling centre where they’ll be given a second life as sustainable packaging products,” said MPMA Sabah Branch Chairman Liaw Hen Kong.
Designated recycling bins were placed strategically along the race route to ensure plastic waste was properly sorted and not contaminated by general trash.
A recycling station was also set up near the finish line to demonstrate the crushing, compacting and baling process to the public.
The initiative builds on the success of last year’s campaign, which saw 400kg of plastic waste collected from 6,000 runners.
The increase in both runner participation and volume of recycled waste highlights growing public awareness and commitment to sustainability.
The campaign, held in collaboration with the Kinabalu Running Club and Datuk Dr Heng Aik Cheng, who is also Race Director of the marathon, aimed not just to create a litter-free event but to promote a culture of responsible waste disposal and recycling among the public.
With runners from 49 countries, the campaign also supported Sabah’s image as a green tourism destination.
The initiative is part of MPMA’s ongoing nationwide effort to reduce plastic pollution and promote recycling through its four branches across Malaysia.
Participating MPMA Sabah Branch member companies included. Life Water Industries Sdn Bhd, HKT Furniture Sdn Bhd, Uniang Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd, Stellar Plastik Sdn Bhd, Eiffel Plastic Sdn Bhd and Lok Kawi Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd.
