Miri Launches Plastic Reduction Campaign Adam Yii: Environmental Awareness for All

(Miri, 17th) Miri Mayor Adam Yii stated that the “Zero Single-Use Plastic” campaign is not just the launch of an activity but represents a joint commitment by the City Council and all sectors of society to the environment of Miri and the future generations.

He made this remark this afternoon at the entrance of Boulevard Hypermarket Sdn. Bhd, while officiating the launch of the 2026 “Zero Single-Use Plastic” campaign. The event coincides with the inaugural SDG Carnival held by the Miri City Council in 2026, jointly organized by the Miri City Council Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) strategic partners and Miri Residents Committee.

Adam Yii  pointed out that, over the years, the “No Plastic Bag Movement” has become part of daily life for Miri residents, effectively raising public environmental awareness and gradually changing consumer habits. Nowadays, many citizens think twice before taking plastic bags—this is an admirable step forward. At present, the first stage has already seen participation from eight large hypermarkets, working together to promote the plastic reduction initiative.

However, he admitted that pollution caused by single-use plastics remains a serious problem, especially after heavy rains, when plastic waste is often seen in drains, rivers, and coastal areas, impacting marine ecology. These issues are not distant but real environmental concerns happening in Miri.

"Therefore, now is the right time to strengthen and reactivate this movement. With urban development and rising public awareness, society also expects more powerful actions and clearer directions."

He also clarified that since 2018, the Miri City Council has not imposed a 20 sen plastic bag charge; currently, any relevant fees charged by supermarkets or retail stores are independently decided by the businesses themselves— the City Council does not collect, manage, or benefit from them.

"The role of the City Council has never been about income but focuses on education, raising awareness, and leading social change— encouraging citizens to develop the habit of reusing and coordinating city-wide efforts to reduce plastic waste."

Adam Yii  emphasized that real change begins with small choices in daily life. For example, the seemingly minor act of refusing single-use plastic bags, if practiced daily by thousands, can have a profound impact, helping keep the city clean, protecting river and ocean ecology, and creating a healthier living environment.

He said the “Zero Single-Use Plastic” campaign will focus on several key directions, including reducing dependence on single-use plastics, promoting reusable alternatives, strengthening cooperation with supermarkets and retailers, raising public awareness, and encouraging youth, schools, and community organizations to participate in environmental education.

He added that these efforts align with Sarawak’s post-pandemic development strategies for 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially in areas like sustainable cities, responsible consumption, climate action, and marine ecological protection.

Adam Yii stated that Miri City Council will continue to set an example, fostering a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Miri through closer partnerships, more effective implementation, and an empowered community.

He also thanked major supermarkets and hypermarket operators for their longstanding cooperation and support and called on all sectors of society to unite and take collective responsibility to put these actions into practice, rather than letting them remain as slogans.