Curtin Malaysia to support environmental initiatives and EcoBrick Project

Miri – 29 May 2023 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Persatuan Peniaga Sekendhend dan Kitar Semula Miri (Miri Secondhand Dealers and Recyclers Association) for collaboration in creating a green and sustainable environment through recycling and no-plastic initiatives.

This includes PPSKSM’s ongoing EcoBrick Project for Miri, which has already made it into the Malaysian Book of Records and now aims to achieve global recognition through inclusion the Guinness Book of World Records.

PPSKSM chairman Bryan Chia Sak Chan signed on behalf of the association, while acting chief operating officer of Curtin Malaysia, Associate Professor Ir. Pieter Willem Pottas, signed for the university.

Also present were PPSKSM Secretary Yong Pik Sie, committee members Rose Ngo and Zuisk Teo Soo Chin, and EcoBrick Project Coordinator Kong Lee Jing, and Dean of Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Associate Dean of External Engagement Associate Professor Ir. Lim Chye Ing, Director of School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE) Associate Professor Fidella Tiew, and former Dean of Faculty of Business Professor Andreas Zins.

Assoc. Prof. Ir. Pottas said Curtin Malaysia and PPSKSM recognise the urgent need to deal with the problem of plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices for the benefit of the local community. He said plastic waste is one of the biggest threats to our planet’s environment and the health and safety of its citizens as it takes a long time for plastic to decompose, and the accumulation of plastic waste is posing a major threat to ecosystems worldwide.

“Our collaboration reaffirms our commitment to reduce plastic waste through recycling and promote green initiatives that will save our environment. We have come together to sign this MoU in the hope of creating a better future, not just for ourselves, but for future generations as well,” he said.

Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate to increase public awareness of the environmental impacts caused by the widespread use of plastic, especially single-use plastic; create a green and sustainable environment and circular economy through recycling; and reduce plastic waste pollution. In addition, Curtin Malaysia’s staff and students will promote and participate in the EcoBrick Project, and help build the EcoBrick Wall which will be formed out of EcoBricks as a new landmark and tourist attraction in Miri.

The MoU signing was followed by a video presentation on PPSKSM’s environmental initiatives and activities and a briefing on the EcoBrick Project by Chia and Kong.

Chia said the EcoBrick Project has received tremendous support from the local community, particularly from schools and community groups, and continues to grow. Over 15,000 people have participated in the project and over 10,000 EcoBricks have been made so far. Furthermore, the project has the support of the Miri City Council and various state government agencies.

He said that once 20,000 EcoBricks are achieved to form the EcoBrick Wall, PPSKSM will make a bid for the feat to be entered in the Guinness Book of World Records, and the EcoBrick Wall, dubbed the ‘Green Wall of Miri’, will be built in collaboration with EcoBrick Project partners.

Curtin Malaysia recently launched a two-month-long EcoBrick Building Competition for its students and staff with prizes for the heaviest and the greatest number of EcoBricks produced. According to the organisers from its faculties, the competition is an opportunity for the university community to demonstrate its commitment to reducing plastic waste and minimising its carbon footprint, and contribute to a sustainable future.

Information on Curtin Malaysia can be found on its website at www.curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Bryan Chia and AProf Ir Pieter Pottas exchange MoU documents

PPSKSM and Curtin Malaysia representatives pose for group photo after the signing